6 Arrowroot Benefits & Uses

Arrowroot is a plant that's often used as a thickening agent in food. It has a long history of medicinal uses, including the ability to serve as a healthy gluten-free alternative to cornstarch. Arrowroot got its name from inhabitants of Central America who used the plant to draw out poison and soothe inflammation caused by poisonous arrow wounds. Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, arrowroot benefits include the ability to improve digestive health, treat urinary tract infections, boost immune function and more.

Arrowroot Benefits

1. Aids in Digestion

Arrowroot benefits include the ability to promote healthy digestion. In a 2000 study, researchers found that arrowroot was an effective treatment for diarrhea and constipation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Arrowroot helps fight inflammation in the digestive tract to promote regular, healthy bowel movements and prevent digestive issues. (1)

2. Safe For Infants

Arrowroot benefits adults, as well as children. It has a mild flavor and it's safe to use in food for infants. You can use arrowroot in your recipes without fear that it will cause digestive issues for you or your family. Arrowroot benefits also include the fact that it's allergen-free. It's often used in teething cookies because there is little to no risk of an allergic reaction.

3. Treats Urinary Tract Infections

Arrowroot benefits include the ability to naturally treat urinary tract infections. It helps fight harmful bacteria while reducing inflammation and soothing pain caused by a UTI. Arrowroot has natural antiseptic properties that can also help prevent future UTI's.

4. Boosts Immune Function

Arrowroot benefits include the ability to give the immune system a natural boost. In a 2012 study, researchers found that arrowroot was able to boost the production of cells in the immune system to enhance the body's immunity and help fight off infection. Mix arrowroot powder into juice or another beverage to help boost your immune system and promote healthy digestion. (2)

5. Fights Foodborne Pathogens

Arrowroot benefits include the ability to fight foodborne pathogens that lead to illness. Research has shown that arrowroot is able to reduce pathogens in various foods, including liquid food like soup. One study found that arrowroot tea significantly reduced the amount of salmonella virus in the soups that were tested. The research suggests that arrowroot benefits include the ability to help protect the digestive system from infections due to foodborne pathogens. (3)

6. Soothes Gum and Mouth Pain

Arrowroot benefits include the ability to soothe sore gums and pain in the mouth, which is why arrowroot is a common ingredient in teething cookies for babies. Arrowroot benefits sore gums by relieving inflammation and soothing pain. Like coconut oil pulling, arrowroot can be added to your regular routine to help relieve mouth pain. Simply apply arrowroot powder directly to your gums for pain relief.