Herbs & Botanicals

Product Description

Botanical Name: Maranta arundinacea

Plant Family: Marantaceae

Botanical Description:
Maranta arundinacea, commonly known as arrowroot, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to tropical regions of South America. It belongs to the Marantaceae family, which includes other well-known plants such as prayer plants and calatheas. Arrowroot typically grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters and has large, ovate leaves with prominent veins. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are white or pale pink in colour. Arrowroot is cultivated primarily for its starchy rhizomes, which are harvested for culinary and medicinal purposes. The rhizomes are long, slender, and tuberous, with a white, starchy interior.

Introduction:
Arrowroot has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples of South America for its culinary and medicinal properties. It is valued for its high starch content, which makes it a versatile ingredient in cooking and baking. Arrowroot starch, obtained from the rhizomes of the plant, is known for its smooth texture, neutral flavour, and ability to thicken sauces, soups, and desserts. In addition to its culinary uses, arrowroot has also been used traditionally in herbal medicine to aid various health conditions.

Preparations:
Arrowroot Powder: Arrowroot powder is made by grinding the dried rhizomes of the arrowroot plant into a fine powder. It can be used as a thickening agent in cooking and baking or added to beverages as a nutritive tonic. Arrowroot powder can also be applied topically to the skin to soothe and protect.
Arrowroot Infusion: Prepare arrowroot infusion by steeping dried arrowroot rhizomes in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Strain the infusion and drink as needed. Arrowroot infusion can also be used as a base for homemade skincare products.