Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:

• Albumen, araruta, arrowroot cookie, arrowroot starch, ash, bamboo tuber, Bermuda arrowroot, calcium, East Indian arrowroot, fat, fiber, gum, iron, magnesium, Maranta arundinacea, Marantaceae (family), obedience plant, phosphorus, potassium, reed arrowroot, sodium, St. Vincent arrowroot, starch, sugar, true arrowroot, West Indian arrowroot, zinc.
• Note: This plant should not be confused with arrowhead (Sagittaria spp.) or Japanese arrowroot (Pueraria montana).

Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness

Brief Background:

• Arrowroot refers to any plant of the genus Maranta, but the term is most commonly used to describe the easily digestible starch obtained from the rhizomes of Maranta arundinacea. Other plants that produce similar starches include East Indian arrowroot (Curcuma angustifolia), Queensland arrowroot (Cannaceae family), Brazilian arrowroot (Euphorbiaceae family), and Florida arrowroot (Zamia pumila or Zamia integrifolia). This monograph addresses only true arrowroot, Maranta arundinacea.
• Arrowroot is used in the form of a starchy powder dried from the milky liquid extracted from the grated plant rhizome.
• Traditionally, arrowroot has been used as a remedy for diarrhea, possibly due to its high starch content.
• In 2000, one methodologically weak study found a modest benefit for relief of diarrhea in patients with irritable bowel syndrome using commercially prepared arrowroot. Further studies of higher quality are needed before a arrowroot can be recommended for this use.

Dosing/Toxicology

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Precautions/Contraindications

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Mechanism of Action

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History

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Evidence Table

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Evidence Discussion

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Products Studied

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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