Anandapuram (Thrissur): As Thiruvathira ceremony is round the corner, arrowroot is ready for harvest here to prepare the special pudding on the day. Dr Kesari has cultivated arrowroot on large scale in his 2-acre compound.
An Ayurveda practitioner, Dr Kesari and wife introduce arrowroot farming to the people. He works as a senior physician in Coimbatore Vaidyagramam Ayurveda Healing Village and his wife Dr Radhamani is the chief medical officer at Koorkencherry Government Ayurveda Hospital.
Dr Kesari said that arrowroot is cultivated very rarely. He started growing the tuber from the seeds brought from Kolathappilly in Palakkad. As the tuber sprouted from the seed it can be used for propagation, new seeds need not be purchased. This reduces further expenses.
Arrowroot farming depends on the availability of monsoon rain. Farming begins in June and the tuber will be ready for harvest by December. As the doctor couple know the process of making arrowroot powder, they hope to make the farming a success.
Nutritious food and medicine
Arrowroot is a major content in Ayurveda medicines such as ‘Thaleesapathradichoornam’. It is used in many other medicines. Arrowroot biscuits containing starch also is made from this tuber.
A rich source of many nutrients, arrowroot digests easily. It is good for treating urinary diseases, vomiting, diarrhoea, gas, acidity and fatigue. It maintains healthy balance of acidity and alkalinity in the body and improves blood production.
A good source of iron, arrowroot is ideal for treating anaemia. Pregnant women can consume the tuber for the brain development of the baby as arrowroot contains folate. Vitamin B12 helps cell growth, DNA formation and reduce chances of neuro disorders.
Protein in arrowroot is good for muscle health and calcium makes bones stronger. Arrowroot is a natural remedy for the issues related to low bone density.
