Consolidating tender coconuts as a source of safe natural large volume parenteral fluid under regulatory oversight

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate reported absence of hyperkalema episodes due to high [K+] and the absence of hypersensitivity reactions due to tracer proteins in tender coconut water following IV infusion. To establish tender coconuts as a prospective natural large volume parenteral ‘dosage unit’. Method: Fluid from nuts identified with ‘Rosette Alba’ sign to be of 5-6 months maturity were evaluated. Important tests performed were the shelf life, direct tapping of the fluid, hemolysis and the molecular mass studies of tracer proteins by SDS PAGE gel electrophoresis. Results: Calculations indicate that [K+] dropped by 1/6th -1/9th in blood following IV infusion of fluid. Proteins are in the low molecular mass range of 10,000 Da, hence below potent antigen range. Conclusion: Drastic dilution of [K+] and the presence of hyperkalemia antidotal ingredients in the fluid and the low molecular mass of the proteins found in low concentration of 0.2 % and IV administration bypassing immunogenic subcutaneous route could be the possible reasons for absence of hyperkalemia and hypersensitivity reactions. The study did not show any dosage parameter that adversely restrains IV infusion potential of tender coconut water.