17 Effective Benefits Of Arrowroot For Health, Hair And Skin

Thursday, December 13, 2018, 16:51

The starch obtained from the rootstock of the Maranta arundinaceae arrowroot is powdery in form. Arrowroot is 23% starch and its root and underground ^[1] stem are used for medicinal purposes. The nutritional content of the food makes it highly beneficial for infants, as well as children and adults. The far-stretching applications of arrowroot from gluten-free baking, homoeopathic remedies to paper making is not amusing, considering the plethora of uses and benefits the starch endures.

The arrowroot powder is extracted from the cylindrical-shaped root, covered with thin surface scales. The scales are removed from the roots as it may crush the flavour, and are made into a pulp from which the starch is obtained. The dried result of the milky liquid from the pulp is arrowroot powder, a white and odourless talc, widely^[2] used as a thickening agent in the food industries.

The gluten-free, paleo-friendly nature ^[3] of arrowroot has given it a central place in the diet of an increasingly health-conscious society. Ease of digestion to anti-inflammatory properties, arrowroot is a must include in your daily diet, especially if you have a sensitive digestive system and it is incredibly safe for infants. Thus, let's dive into know more about the amazing benefits offered by the starch that is giving cornstarch a run for its money!

Nutritional Value Of Arrowroot

100 grams of arrowroot has 457 kcal of energy. 0.4 grams protein, 0.2 milligrams pantothenic acid, 0.1 gram polyunsaturated fat, 0.4 milligrams iron, 0.1 milligram copper, 0.6 milligrams manganese and 0.1 milligram zinc.

100 grams of arrowroot contain approximately

113 grams total carbohydrate
4.4 grams dietary fibre ^[4]
14.6 grams water
51.2 milligrams calcium
3.8 milligrams magnesium
6.4 milligrams phosphorus
14.1 milligrams potassium
2.6 milligrams sodium
9.0 micrograms folate
11.5 milligrams total omega-3 fatty acids
46.1 milligrams total omega-6 fatty acids

Benefits Of Arrowroot

An antidote to a central component in baby formulas, the advantages of Maranta arundinaceae are plenty. The seemingly simple white powdery substance is, in fact, a miracle worker, as it can help you even with infections.

1. Improves immunity

Arrowroot powder is known to have cytotoxic properties, that aid in improving your immune system. The ample amount of potassium, iron and the B vitamins in the powder improves your immunity by stimulating the immune ^[5] cells. The combination of minerals in the powder helps your body to ward off any unwanted bacteria and toxins.

The minerals work together to increase your energy levels and your stamina by elevating the oxygenation of your organs. Regular consumption of arrowroot powder can fight off fatigue and any cognitive disorders.

2. Aids in weight loss

Completely fat-free and low in calories, arrowroot is extremely beneficial if you are looking forward to losing some weight. Incorporating nutrient-rich food into your daily diet to lose weight is a common advice given by nutritionists. Being well-balanced ^[6] with minerals and nutrients, arrowroot powder does not cause any side effects to your body in the process. The dietary fibre and complex carbohydrates in the powder will keep you feeling full, thus avoiding the constant need to snack.

3. Improves digestive system

The use of arrowroot powder can directly improve your digestive system. The dietary fibre content in the powder helps in the easy movement ^[7] of food, without losing the nutrients. It also improves your bowel movement and eradicating any chances of constipation. Individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome can make use of arrowroot powder, as it acts as a mild laxative and soothes the bowel movement.

One of the other major benefits of arrowroot powder is eliminating diarrhoea. Recent studies have pointed out that arrowroot is a natural treatment for diarrhoea. Consumption of arrowroot powder not only reduces the abdominal pain but also minimizes the occurrences of diarrhoea. It has been proven effective in the case of individuals suffering from ^[8] irritable bowel syndrome.

4. Beneficial during pregnancy

Folate and folate-rich foods are essential for the mother and the unborn baby during the time of pregnancy. Arrowroot is a natural source of folate, which is advisable ^[9] for expecting mother for their health and the child's health. The controlled and adequate consumption of the starch powder during the pre-conception and pregnancy period can ensure the development of a healthy foetus.

Arrowroot powder can help reduce the risk of birth defects due to the presence of B vitamin folate and can prevent any neural tube defects ^[10] in the unborn child. Folate also plays an important role in DNA synthesis, promoting quick healing and ^[11] growth. However, it is suggested that expecting mothers consult with the doctor and begin the consumption, just to be on the safe side.

5. Improves heart health

The high potassium content in arrowroot powder ^[12] plays a significant role in improving the functioning of your heart. Potassium ^[13] helps by regulating your heart rate and blood pressure and reduces the chances of any heart-related health issues. Being a vasodilator and a cognitive enhancer, potassium ^[14] relaxes the blood vessels and arteries, thereby reducing the risk of high blood pressure, strokes, heart attacks and atherosclerosis.

Likewise, the folate content also plays an important role in strengthening your cardiovascular health. It reduces ^[15] the levels of homocysteine in your blood by erasing the possibilities of peripheral vascular diseases. The magnesium content also contributes to this by relaxing the blood vessels and improving the blood flow.

6. Treats urinary tract infection (UTI)

The anti-inflammatory properties of the starch talc are beneficial in curing urinary tract infections (UTI) and bladder infections. Women suffering from UTI are prescribed to incorporate arrowroot in their diet as it can soothe the ^[16] inflammation and restrict possible infections in the future. Being a demulcent in nature, arrowroot soothes the tract and reduces the inflammation and irritation in the mucous membranes.

The antiseptic properties of arrowroot are helpful in treating UTIs and it prevents the occurrence of any infections in the future.

8 Signs You Have Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) 8 Signs You Have Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

7. Balances blood pressure

With arrowroot being highly effective for improving your cardiovascular health, it is not surprising that it helps maintain a healthy ^[17] blood pressure. The potassium to sodium ratio in arrowroot helps the blood vessels to function relaxedly and thus, maintain a balanced blood pressure. Consuming arrowroot is extremely beneficial for people suffering from hypertension.

8. Improves kidney health

Arrowroot helps in improving the functioning of your whole body. It has a substantial amount of potassium in it, which plays a major role in ^[18] contributing to the better health of your kidney. The potassium helps your kidney by clearing out the toxic deposits situated in your kidney.

9. Develops cognitive functioning

One of the most important health benefit possessed by arrowroot is the healthy development of the brain. The iron content in arrowroot ^[19] improves the haemoglobin production, which in turn improves the blood flow. The adequate amount of oxygen and iron results in the improved cognitive functioning and performance. Regular ^[20] consumption of arrowroot can reduce the chances of Alzheimer's disease and dementia risks.

10. Beneficial for infants

The starchy content and mild flavour of the arrowroot powder is safe for infants. As it is light and does not cause any digestion ^[21] related issues, arrowroot is a safe ingredient. Its ease of digestion is another reason that makes it a popular food for infants and can be used as an alternative to milk. Arrowroot is also a main ingredient in teething cookies ^[22] for infants. It is allergen-free, soothes gum and has no possible allergic reactions.

11. Improves sleep cycle

The high magnesium content in arrowroot is an effective solution for an improved sleep cycle. Magnesium, the mineral improves ^[23] the quality, duration, and tranquillity of your sleep and regulates your metabolism, reducing the occurrence of sleep disorders such as insomnia.

12. Maintains alkali and acid balances

The presence of calcium chloride, in the form of calcium in the arrowroot powder, helps maintain a balance in the alkali and acid levels in your body. An imbalance ^[24] in the alkali and acid levels can cause vomiting, nausea etc. and this can be avoided by the regular consumption of arrowroot.

13. Treats skin problems

Arrowroot is used as a herbal remedy for various skin problems. It is used in the treatment for smallpox and gangrene and reduces the level of infection and the itchiness. The light, absorbent and soft texture of the powder makes it a prime ingredient in body powders as it helps in treating rashes, sores, wounds and blemishes.

The vitamins and proteins in the powder can help get rid of skin pigmentation, blemishes or irritation and even delay the onset of premature ageing.

14. Relieves gum and mouth pain

The soothing properties of arrowroot are not just limited to infants, it can also be used for treating mouth and gum pain. Applying the arrowroot ^[25] powder directly to the affected area can help relieve the pain due to the anti-inflammatory properties of the powder.

15. Has antibacterial properties

Arrowroot is said to have healing properties, that can speed up the recovery process. The antibacterial properties of the root powder make it useful in the cases of bruises, wounds, or knife cuts. Its antiseptic and antibacterial qualities stop the spread of any infection and help relieve the pain. This is applicable in the case of minor wounds.

16. Treats athlete's foot

A common type of feet-skin infection caused by the fungus, athlete's foot can be cured with the application of arrowroot. The absorbent quality of the powder absorbs the excessive sweat and moisture, leaving the feet comfortably dry. The dryness caused will stop the growth and spread of the fungus.

Home Remedies For Athletes Foot Home Remedies For Athletes Foot

17. Used in hair care

The absorbent nature of arrowroot is the major reason for it to be used in the production of powders and dry shampoo. The moisture absorbing quality of the powder makes it useful in hair care, as applying it can reduce the greasiness in your hair.

How To Use Arrowroot

The applications of the starch powder extend from agriculture to manufacturing to commercial.

For babies

It can be mixed with breast milk into a paste and fed to the baby
It can be fed in the form of porridge or jelly
The powder can be mixed with vegetable purées (sweet potato, carrot or beetroot) as well.

Traditional uses

It can be applied for healing wounds
Used to treat gangrene
Used to relieve gum and mouth pain.

Agricultural uses

It can be fertilized to form compost
The tip and leaves are used to feed pigs, chicken and goats.

Other uses

Natural deodorant
Leaves can be used as biodegradable plates
Used as a thickener in infants' formula
Used as a sauce thickener
Used in cosmetics - powders, dry shampoos etc.
Great as a coating for meat and fish, especially for fried foods
Substitute for cornstarch
Used for soups, stews, gravies, pancakes, pie fillings and custards.

Arrowroot Recipe

Sweet and sour soup

Ingredients

1 cup broccoli florets (parboiled)
1/2 cup capsicum, cut into triangles
1/2 cup baby corn, sliced and parboiled
1/4 cup sliced carrots (parboiled)
10 to 15 spring onions
1 tbsp garlic finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp arrowroot or cornflour
2 tsp sugar
salt to taste

Directions

Heat the oil and then fry the chopped garlic
Add all the vegetables and stir for 10-15 minutes on low fire
Make the very thin paste of arrowroot and heat it till the consistency is little thick
Add the vegetables, sugar and salt in the gravy
Serve hot!

Warnings

Arrowroot is widely known not to have any severe and adverse side effects when consumed. However, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is advised that you inquire with your doctor before incorporating arrowroot into your diet. The same applies if you are following any medications.

View Article References

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