Reciprocal relationship between magnesium and cerium as a common basis for coconut root (wilt) and a human cardiomyopathy

Abstract

The leaves of coconut palms affected by root (wilt) in Kerala showed lower level of magnesium and higher concentration of cerium in signficant contrast to control samples from palms in Manavalakurichi and Bombay. The reciprocal relationship between magnesium and cerium in the diseased palms is similar to their relationship in the cardiac tissues of patients with endomyocardial fibrosis. A common geochemical basis for these two conditions warrants further study.