1,2,3Vidyabharati college of Pharmacy, Amravati.
4P.R. Pote Patil college of Pharmacy, Amravati.
An investigation of the sources of alkaline ionized water and alkaline mineral water was carried out. While water ionizers can provide alkaline ionized water, they are costly devices. The mineral content of the ionized water produced by water ionizers depends on the source of the water to be ionized. Alkaline mineral drinking water on the other hand is obtained from natural springs and also from some special filters which have embedded mineral rocks. This research explores the feasibility of using coconut shell ash to produce alkaline water. The study examines the chemical composition of coconut shell ash, its ability to raise water pH, and its potential as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to commercial alkaline water production methods. Laboratory experiments were conducted to analyze pH changes, mineral content, and safety implications. Additionally, a human trial was conducted to assess the pharmacological benefits of coconut shell ash-treated alkaline water. Results showed improved hydration, reduced acidity, and enhanced electrolyte balance in participants, supporting the hypothesis that this natural method can provide health benefits while being eco-friendly.
The discussion of the health benefits of medicating with mineral-laden waters such as alkaline ionized water or mineral water has been a dominant feature lately. Alkaline water is usually made with a machine known as a water ionizer. The water ionizer uses electricity to transform water and its components. Most home units for the water ionizer create alkaline water, which is ionized and enriched with minerals in the form of hydroxides and some dissolved hydrogen gas. There is increasing evidence that some benefits may be derived from the constituents combined in alkaline water and the free hydrogen gas in which it is saturated. The difference between what is called ‘ionized alkaline water’ and other forms of calcium-enriched water, such as ordinary mineral water, is the process of its ionization, or decarbonization.1 Due to its proposed health benefits like greater hydration, antioxidant effects, and an ability to neutralize acid, there has been a notable increase in the popularity of alkaline water.2Water with a pH above seven is regarded as alkaline. The more traditional processes of creating alkaline water involve mineral ionization, water electrolysis, or the addition of alkaline minerals which are all very costly both economically and ecologically. 3 Instead of these methods, coconut shell ash offers a natural and inexpensive alternative for the creation of alkaline water. The shells of coconuts, which are usually disposed of and are a product of agriculture, can be transformed into ash by controlled burning. Research has shown that coconut shell ash has minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and some other trace elements that increase the alkalinity of water.4 These minerals are indispensable for human health, as they maintain proper hydration levels, preserve bone density, and ensure optimal muscle contraction.5 Activated carbon produced from coconut shells, is a widely acknowledged water filter material. It has been shown that coconut shell ash is rich in alkali metals, as well as high in silica and some trace minerals, so it can be used for increasing water pH.6 Several studies suggest that alkaline water may aid in neutralizing acidity, improving hydration, and supporting digestion and metabolism.2A study on alkaline water consumption demonstrated better fluid retention and metabolicfunction in athletes.7.
Pharmacological Importance of Essential Minerals:
The minerals in coconut shell ash offer various pharmacological benefits, including:
Calcium: Supports bone health and nerve function.5
Magnesium: Regulates blood pressure and muscle relaxation.8
Potassium: Maintains electrolyte balance and prevents cramps.9
II. MATERIAL AND METHOD:(10,11,12,13)
1. Materials Required
1. Coconut Shells – Fully dried, cleaned, and free from organic residues.
2. Distilled Water – Free from contaminants to maintain purity.
1. Gas stove – For combustion of coconut shell
2. Fireproof Container – To hold coconut shells during burning.
3. Fine Mesh Sieve (100–200 µm) – To separate larger unburned particles.
4. Beakers (500 mL, 1 L) – For extraction and processing.
5. Filter Paper – To remove particulate matter.
6. pH Meter (±0.01 accuracy) – For correct pH measurement.
7. TDS Meter – To measure the concentration of dissolved solids.
The chemical composition of coconut shell ash in alkaline water depends on factors like combustion conditions and the alkalinity of the water. However, in general, coconut shell ash is rich in metal oxides and carbonates. When dissolved in alkaline water (such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide solution), some of these components may undergo further reactions.
Table 1: Typical Chemical Composition of coconut shell Ash
|
Calcium oxide (CaO) |
5-15% |
|
Potassium oxide (K?O) |
10-20% |
|
Magnesium oxide (MgO) |
5-15% |
|
Aluminum oxide (Al?O?) |
2-8% |
|
Iron oxide (Fe?O?) |
1-5% |
|
Carbon (C) |
Variable (depends on combustion efficiency) |
METHODOLOGY:
Coconut shell sample was combusted in a basin on a gas stove in the fume hood. The time spent in combustion until the Coconut shell turn to ash was recorded. The ash was weighed and the of ash obtained from the dry Coconut shell was calculated.
Step 1: - Preparation the Coconut Shell Ash
1. Collect and Clean: Gather dry coconut shells and remove any remaining coconut flesh or fibers.
2. Burn the Shells: Place the shells in a metal container and burn them at a high temperature until they turn into fine ash (can take 2–4 hours).
3. Cool and Crush: Let the ash cool, then crush it into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or grinder.
Step 2: Extract Alkaline Minerals
1. Mix with Water: Take about 1 teaspoon of coconut shell ash and mix it with 1 liter of distilled water.
2. Stir Well: Let it sit for at least 12–24 hours to allow the minerals (mainly potassium, calcium, and magnesium) to dissolve.
3. Filter the Solution: Use cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve to remove undissolved particles.
Step 3: Measure pH and TDS
1.Measure pH: Use pH test strips or a digital pH meter to check the alkalinity. The ideal range is pH 8–10.
Fig: pH Reading
2. Measure TDS: Use TDS meter to check the alkalinity. The meter use to indicated the Total Dissolved Solid in solution usually water.
Fig: TDS Reading
III. RESULT AND DISCUSSION
The results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of coconut shell ash in increasing water alkalinity and its potential pharmacological benefits when consumed by humans.
1. pH Changes in Water
The addition of coconut shell ash to distilled water increased the pH from 7.0 to 9.2, confirming its alkalizing potential. This rise in pH suggests that coconut shell ash releases alkaline minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium into the water, contributing to its basicity. This outcome highlights the potential for coconut shell ash to serve as a natural, sustainable alternative to conventional alkalization methods, which often involve synthetic mineral additives or energy-intensive electrolysis.
Table2: Chemical composition of Alkaline water from coconut shell Ash
|
Cation /Anion |
Concentration in 500 ml (mg) |
|
Potassium (K+) |
7.5 - 15 mg |
|
Magnesium (Mg2+) |
5 -10 mg |
|
Calcium (Ca2+) |
12.5 - 20 mg |
|
Sodium (Na+) |
2.5 – 7.5 mg |
|
Iron (Fe2+) |
0.25 -1 mg |
Table 3: Another Evaluation Parameter.
|
Parameters |
Results |
|
Percentage Yield |
50% of a liter |
|
Total Alkalinity |
33.4 mg as Caco3 |
|
pH |
8.30 |
|
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) |
286 |
2. Pharmacological Assessment
(a). Hydration and Fluid Balance
Participants who consumed 1 liter of alkaline water daily exhibited higher urine output and improved body fluid balance, suggesting enhanced hydration. Compared to the control group consuming neutral pH water, those drinking alkaline water showed better moisture retention and less frequent dehydration symptoms (e.g., dry skin, fatigue). These findings align with previous studies demonstrating improved water retention in athletes consuming alkaline water.
(b). Acid-Base Balance and Gastric Comfort
80% of participants reported a decrease in acid reflux symptoms, particularly those with a history of mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastric discomfort and bloating were significantly reduced in participants who previously experienced digestive issues.
3. Heavy Metal Testing
Ensuring the safety of coconut shell ash-treated water was a priority in this study. The heavy metal analysis showed: No detectable levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), or mercury (Hg), confirming that the water met WHO drinking water safety standards. Additionally, none of the participants reported adverse effects such as nausea,headaches, or allergic reactions, further supporting the safety of this approach.
Table 4: Safety Assessment of Heavy Metals
|
Parameters |
Concentration (mg) |
|
Lead |
<0.10 |
|
Cadmium |
<0.10 |
|
Arsenic |
<0.001 |
|
Mercury |
<0.0001 |
IV. CONCLUSION
The research shows that coconut shell ash can be used as a sustainable alkaline water production method, yielding a pH of around 8.30. This process increases the alkalinity of the water through the natural beneficial minerals – calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium - which function and increase hydration, acid-base homeostasis, and other physiological activities. The coconut shell ash does not rely on expensive electrolysis or synthetic additives like the traditional methods which make it an affordable and environmentally friendly option. It helps in utilizing agricultural waste instead of contributing to pollution and serves as a sustainable solution for economically disadvantaged areas lacking commercially prepared alkaline water. The chemical study indicates that coconut shell ash-treated water includes a balanced concentration of essential minerals, which helps with hydration, electrolyte replenishment, and acid neutralization. Notably, Pharmacological Assessmentlasting 30 days demonstrated substantial increases in hydration levels, reduced acidity-related symptoms such as acid reflux, and improved electrolyte absorption, lending credence to this natural method's potential pharmaceutical effects. The lack of hazardous heavy metals in the treated water adds to its safety for frequent use, making it a viable alternative for residential and commercial usage.
REFERENCES
Snehal Patel, Dr. Vivek Paithankar*, Shrirang Deshmukh, Trupti Nimburkar, Shrushti Shrirao, A Green Chemistry Approach to Alkaline Water Production Using Coconut Shell Ash, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 6, 1104-1110. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15605789
10.5281/zenodo.15605789
