Health Benefits of Arrow roots

Arrow roots are starch-rich rhizomes that creep underground and belong to the Marantaceae plant family. They are mainly grown in the Caribbean Islands, Philippines and South America due to their easily digestible starch tubers.

The scientific name of an arrowroot is Maranta arundinacea. The powdered form of arrow roots is one of the best carbohydrate sources. The powder has qualities like being easily digestible, and having the ability to mix well with a wide variety of food ingredients; which makes it one of the most used starch substance in infant formulas and baked goods.

Arrow roots have their origin in South America; most likely in Western Brazil lowlands. An arrowroot plant is a tiny perennial herb that grows to about 3 to 5 feet with broad leaves. Small white flowers are seen on the lengthy pedicle around ninety days after planting. 

Health Benefits
1. Arrow roots have few calories. 100 arrow roots have approximately 65 calories; which is lower compared to cassava, yams and potatoes. The powder made from arrow roots is fine, has no smell and it's granular starch that is mostly used as a thickener or stabilizing agent in the food industry.
2. Just like other roots and tubers, arrow roots do not contain gluten. Starch without gluten is utilized in preparing food for patients suffering from celiac disease.
3. Fresh arrow roots are an excellent source of folates. 100 grams of the roots may give 84 percent of daily recommended amounts of folatn B-12; which is among the vital components that play a role in synthesizing DNA and division of cells. A diet packed with folate when administered during precondition stage and pregnancy might assist in preventing congenital defects in the developing foetus.
4. Arrow roots have healthy amounts of B-complex group of Vitamins. These vitamins are used as substrates for enzymes during the metabolism