Arrowroot powder is a popular choice for many to make refreshing drinks and use in cooking. However, not everyone knows how to use it properly.
Nutritional Composition of Arrowroot Powder
Arrowroot powder is made from the arrowroot plant (also known as kat-kun). This product is the starch extracted from the arrowroot tuber. According to VnExpress, quoting Herbalist Bui Dac Sang from the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association, arrowroot has a cooling nature and a sweet taste. It is effective in heat relief, quenching thirst, and treating diarrhea, dysentery, and neck pain.
In cases of heatstroke, sunstroke, headache, hot intestines, sweating, and fatigue, arrowroot powder can be consumed. It is also beneficial for loss of appetite, sore throat, and women suffering from hot intestines. Mixing arrowroot powder with sugar (or a pinch of salt) and lemon juice can help cure a hangover. Those suffering from sunstroke-induced headaches can drink arrowroot powder water to reduce fatigue.
Additionally, other parts of the arrowroot plant, such as the flowers and leaves, are also usable.
One hundred grams of arrowroot powder provides 0.8g of xylose, 84.3g of glucosides, 0.7g of protein, 20mg of phosphorus, 18mg of calcium, and 1.5mg of iron.
Who Should Not Consume Arrowroot Powder
Although arrowroot powder is beneficial for health, not everyone should consume it. According to Doctor Nguyen Thu, quoted by Sức Khoẻ & Đời Sống, the following groups should avoid using arrowroot powder:
– Individuals with a fatigued constitution and constantly cold hands and feet.
– People with high fever but a feeling of cold shivers.
– Those with low blood pressure, suffering from a cold, or affected by wind chill.
– Pregnant women can drink arrowroot powder to relieve heat and reduce internal heat. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before consumption. Additionally, in cases of hypotension, feeling cold, and fatigue, arrowroot powder should be avoided. Pregnant women showing signs of miscarriage or increased uterine contractions should also refrain from consuming arrowroot-related dishes.
– Young children should not be given raw arrowroot powder to prevent stomach cold and diarrhea. Cooking the arrowroot powder first makes it easier to digest and reduces its cooling properties.
How to Use Arrowroot Powder
When mixing arrowroot powder, use hot water. Adjust the amount of powder and water according to your desired concentration. Stir vigorously while mixing to ensure the powder dissolves completely. Add sugar and lemon juice to taste.
Precautions When Using Arrowroot Powder
While arrowroot powder offers health benefits, it should not be used indiscriminately or excessively. It is recommended to consume arrowroot powder only once a week.
Avoid consuming raw arrowroot powder, and do not take it on an empty stomach to prevent digestive issues. When mixing arrowroot powder, you may use sweeteners like sugar or condensed milk, but refrain from adding too much to prevent excessive energy intake, which can lead to weight gain and obesity.
Arrowroot powder is incompatible with honey, grapefruit blossom, jasmine, and lotus flowers. Combining arrowroot powder with any of these ingredients may cause bloating and discomfort.
The information provided above outlines the groups who should refrain from consuming arrowroot powder. If you belong to any of these groups, it is advisable to limit your intake or consult a doctor before using arrowroot powder. While it offers benefits, improper or excessive consumption may lead to adverse health effects.
