Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!

The Jamaican Arrowroot Plant 
Major Health Benefits + Uses

Sharing Is Caring! Share this awesome content with your friends now.

start_here_if_new_image_link

see_jamaica_in_videos_banner_july_2024_large
The Jamaican Arrowroot PlantThe Jamaican Arrowroot Plant

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

By now we have introduced you to many Jamaican herbs, both popular ones and some not-so-common. So I think it's full-time we introduce you to this gem, the Jamaican Arrowroot plant. It is scientifically known as Maranta arundinacea and has been a go-to in traditional diets and remedies for over 7,000 years.

New! Take a piece of Jamaica with you💃!

Savour the memories!  Now you can get your authentic Jamaican souvenir items, as well as traditional Jamaican herbs, spices and housewares on our popular e-store. Click Here to learn more.


And, if you ever need a trustworthy and knowledgeable local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!

What Exactly is Arrowroot?

Okay, so arrowroot comes from the rhizomes (underground stems) of the arrowroot plant. Here in Jamaica, we use the rhizomes fresh. It is gratered and used topically for wounds, such as dog bites. While I don’t have never eaten arrowroot, I am told some people enjoy it when boiled or added to stews.

Others stick to using arrowroot powder. Once the rhizomes are harvested, they’re processed into a fine, white powder—arrowroot flour. This flour is a great addition to your favourite sauces, soups, and desserts, especially if you’re into gluten-free cooking. But there’s way more to this simple plant.

Nutritional Goodness: What’s Inside?

Don’t let the mild flavour of arrowroot fool you, is surprisingly packed with nutrients. In just one cup of arrowroot slices, you get a solid mix of carbs, protein, and important minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It’s low in calories, so it’s great if you’re watching your waistline, but it doesn’t skimp on the good stuff your body needs.

The Benefits

Arrowroot isn’t just another pretty plant; it’s got some serious health perks. Let’s break them down:

1. Helps with weightloss
I know that weight loss can sometimes be a struggle. Arrowroot can help. It’s full of fibre and resistant starch, which means it keeps you full longer, perfect for avoiding those snack attacks. Plus, it’s low-cal, so you can enjoy it without worrying about the scale.

2. Helps with Digestion
If your stomach’s a bit sensitive, arrowroot is your friend. It’s great for soothing your digestive system, especially if you’ve got issues like IBS or celiac disease. Plus, it’s been used for ages as a natural remedy for diarrhoea.

3. Gluten-Free
For those who can’t go near gluten, arrowroot is a lifesaver. It’s completely gluten-free and works as a perfect substitute for wheat flour in cooking and baking. From bread to cookies to thickening sauces, arrowroot does it all without the gluten.

4. Packed with B vitamins
Arrowroot is also a great source of B vitamins, especially niacin and folate. These vitamins do wonders for your energy levels, skin health, and even your nerves. Pregnant? Folate is key for a healthy pregnancy, and arrowroot’s got you covered.

5. Helps You Sleep Better
If you’re tossing and turning at night, arrowroot might be just what you need. Thanks to its high magnesium content, it helps regulate sleep and can even improve the quality of your shut-eye.

6. Good for Your Skin
Arrowroot isn’t just for eating, it’s great for your skin too! It’s used in all sorts of skincare products because it can absorb oil, soothe irritation, and even help clear up acne.

Traditional Benefits

Arrowroot has been a go-to in traditional medicine for centuries, especially in Ayurveda. It’s known for its cooling effect and is often used to treat inflammation and wounds. Fun fact: back in the day, it was even used to draw out poison from arrow wounds, hence the name “arrowroot.” Pretty cool, right?

Arrowroot vs. Cornstarch: What’s the Difference?

You might be wondering, “Isn’t arrowroot just like cornstarch?” Well, not quite. While both are used as thickeners, arrowroot has more fibre, which is better for digestion and blood sugar control. It’s also the go-to for those with corn allergies or anyone avoiding gluten.

Cooking with Arrowroot: Simple Tips

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make the most of arrowroot in your kitchen:

  • Thickening Sauces: Mix it with cold water before adding it to hot liquids to avoid any clumps.
  • Baking: Swap it in for wheat flour at a 1:1 ratio in most recipes.
  • Homemade Ice Cream: A little arrowroot powder can help keep your ice cream smooth by preventing ice crystals from forming.

So, there you have it! Arrowroot is more than just a pantry staple—it’s a powerhouse of nutrients and health benefits. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, improve digestion, or even up your skincare game, arrowroot’s got your back. So why not give it a try? Your body (and your taste buds) will be glad you did!

You might like these

Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)


If you found this page useful, please consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter, to get even more. 

It tells you each week about the new information that I have added, including new developments and great stories from lovers of Jamaica! 

Return to Medicinal Herbs Of Jamaica from The Jamaican Arrowroot Plant 
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from The Jamaican Arrowroot Plant

References & Sources For The Jamaican Arrowroot Plant

  1. Henon, K. (2022, October 22). The Benefits of Arrowroot. PlanetBake. https://planet-bake.com/blogs/blog/the-benefits-of-arrowroot#:~:text=It's%20benefits%20include%20no%20gluten,cholesterol%20levels%2C%20improves%20kidney%20health%2C
  2. Binu, S. (2024, April 25). Arrowroot: Health Benefits, Nutrition, Uses Of Arrowroot Powder, Recipes And Side Effects. Netmeds. https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/arrowroot-health-benefits-nutrition-uses-of-arrowroot-powder-recipes-and-side-effects?srsltid=AfmBOoqPGR25_EnvM0oErl4yhO43BHulToZcODm2wD09XSqCV7Otnyp_
  3. Richards, L. (2022, July 29). What to know about arrowroot. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/arrowroot#summary

New! Comments

Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.
Back To The Top Of This Page

New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿

JAMAICA_ON_A_BUDGET_EBOOK_COVER_LEAN

You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise!

JAMAICA On A Budget is your passport to experiencing what I call 'The Real Jamaica' on a budget!

I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now!

See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!

my_island_jamaica_channel_tv

My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers.

Jamaica_subscribe_button

Read More ...

New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!

P.S. Didn't find what you were looking for? 
Still need help?

Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!

Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.

copyscape
Back To The Top Of This Page

Like My Site? Please Click Here To Share It With Your Friends

Home   |   JOIN US   |   Site Search   |   Have Your Say   |   Archives   |   Old Archives   |   Contact   |   Disclaimer   |   TIP ME!   |   Link To Us


Do like I did! Share your passion
(about your city, hobby or experience) and make a living from it. Click Here to see how.

By Wellesley Gayle   |   Copyright © 2007-2024 My-Island-Jamaica.com   |   All rights Reserved.   |   Privacy Policy