Jaggery or ‘gur’ refers to the unrefined sugars used widely in the South Asian and South East Asian regions. Per se, it refers to the sugarcane sugar but is also used to refer to the products derived from both sugarcane and the date palm. It is a relatively pure and wholesome sugar, possessing high amounts of nutrients. Traditional Indian medicine or Ayurveda considers jaggery to be the most useful food in the treatment of various lung and throat infections. It is considered a better choice than refined sugars as it is a rich source of iron and other required minerals salts and is, therefore, highly recommended as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Jaggery is a popular part of the cuisines of the Indian subcontinent and is used in the various sweet dish preparations. According to the Indian culture, it is to be eaten in the raw form before any important occasion or any new project or venture is undertaken. The sap of the date palm is regarded as the ideal source for producing the best type of sugar and it is, therefore, highly valued. As sugarcane is not grown in as widespread an area as the northern part of the country, jaggery is produced from the sago and the coconut palms in the southernmost parts of the subcontinent. The centrality of the jaggery can be attested to by the fact that the two largest jaggery markets in the world are located in the districts of Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh in India.

Health Benefits

Jaggery is ascribed with various medicinal properties and other health benefits. A pure and wholesome food, it shares the variety of essential amino acids, minerals and vitamins of the sugarcane juice and this is why it is considered a healthier option. It is also high on calcium which is required for maintenance of bone strength and is a healthy and delicious snack.

Being rich in iron, it prevents diseases like anemia and also contains essential nutrients like magnesium and potassium. Magnesium is vital for the proper functioning of the nervous systems and the potassium regulates the blood pressure and the heart functions. While manufacturing processes in sugar utilizes chemicals such as sulphur dioxide, lime and other bleaching agents, jaggery is prepared in a natural way and is a relatively unrefined sugar. It purifies the blood, prevents rheumatism and bile disorders and is highly nutritious in value. Jaggery is also useful in combating problems like cough and stomach ailments like indigestion, acidity and constipation. Recent scientific research has reaffirmed the benefits of jaggery for the sensitive organs of the human body like the lungs. Consumption of jaggery is useful for those who are exposed to pollution on a regular basis like industrial workers. It has been lauded for its ability to help the human body to fight off the ill effects of pollution. We can provide jaggery in form of slabs, cakes and powder.