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Know how you can identify pure mishri (Pic source: Pixabay)Mishri or rock sugar is a natural sugar that is made by evaporating sugarcane sap, without the use of chemicals. There is also a production process that uses the sap of the palm tree. Also spelled misri, it is widely consumed with saunf (or fennel seeds) after a scrumptious meal to promote digestion, and also serves as a refreshing mouth freshener. According to Ayurveda, mishri has numerous health benefits, too. However, often the mishri you consume may not be pure. So how can one differentiate pure mishri from the impure variety?
Speaking with indianexpress.com, Rohit Waghmare, nutritionist at MultiFit said, “Mishri is a terrific alternative to white refined sugar. The white unrefined rock candy is similar to the refined sugar in colour but tastes so much better”.
There are three types of mishri available in the market. They are:
* Dhage wali mishri: It is simply mishri crystallised on a thread. It is the authentic, traditional form of mishri.
* Small machine-made crystals of mishri
* Large crystallised lumps without any thread
If you want pure mishri, always opt for dhage wali mishri. “Ayurveda recommends using mishri with thread as it is the authentic, traditional mishri. Nowadays, mishri made from sugar is also sold, but it is without any thread. So, to be certain that you are actually buying mishri and not sugar, make sure you purchase dhage wali mishri, or the one with thread,” stressed Waghmare.
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Waghmare explained that artificial mishri is nothing but processed sugar made after mixing various chemicals and heating processes, something that makes it “hot in nature”. Rel mishri, on the other hand, is made from the solution of sugarcane (ganna) and the sap of palmyra palm tree (taad ka ped). “It is made by pouring the solution of sugarcane into drums where threads are already placed and the solution is allowed to dry around the threads. The process of crystallization and recrystallization of mishri makes it easily digestible and leaves a cooling effect on the body, making it ‘cool’,” explained Waghmare.
Below are health benefits of mishri, shared by Waghmare:
Treats Common Cold And Cough – Cough, cold and sore throat are common problems, especially in winter. Rock sugar is a miracle ingredient with healing properties that can ease these conditions rapidly. Take half teaspoon of mishri and black pepper, make it into a paste and consume it at night to cure a sore throat. A powder of mishri and black pepper with lukewarm water helps in alleviating cough and also sweeps out excess mucus.
Promotes Digestion – Rock sugar is an apt candy, you can have after an elaborate meal that promotes digestion. It initiates digestion immediately and serves as an after-meal dessert.
Boosts Energy – Mishri is an instant source of energy that refreshes dull mood and boosts energy during post-menopausal mood swings. Mishri improves memory and eases mental fatigue. Drinking a glass of warm milk with mishri at night time is the best way to improve memory.
Many a times, sugar granules are served as mishri. Know how to differentiate between the two. (Pic source: Pixabay)
Refreshing Drink – Mishri is commonly used as a refreshing drink during the summer season. It has a calming effect on the mind and body and alleviates stress. It is a source of instant energy and has the ability to balance the body and relaxes the senses. This refreshing drink is prepared by mixing a spoonful of mishri powder to a glass of water.
Culinary benefits – Mishri is the preferred choice of sugar as it is healthy and unrefined when compared to normal table sugar. It has a unique taste that goes well with all the traditional sweets, even chocolates and other confectionery. Go for organic mishri which is greyish to yellowish in colour, but not the crystal-clear ones.
Boosts Haemoglobin – Ayurvedic experts strongly recommend including rock sugar in the daily diet for those suffering from anaemia. Rich in various minerals, vitamins and amino acids, regular consumption of rock sugar not only triggers better blood circulation but also prevents other complications associated with anaemia like dizziness, fatigue and weakness.
Stimulates Lactation – Mishri is a wonder ingredient that can stimulate lactation in new mothers. It also helps in dealing with mood swings, depression that are often seen in new mothers, as a result of post-partum depression.
Better Vision – Rock sugar is better than regular sugar and is a powerhouse of various nutrients. Traditional medicine recommends it for better eyesight, preventing cataract. Consume it along with milk for improving vision.
Mouth Freshener – Mishri is your wonder fix for that fresh feeling in your mouth, after consuming a heavy meal. It not only gets rid of bad breath but aids in proper digestion, by stimulating digestive juices and helps preventing gastric problems. Eat half a teaspoon of mishri or along with fennel seeds for deriving benefits.
Despite being natural, the consumption of mishri should be limited to small amount as it can increase blood sugar levels. “Hence, it is not suitable for people with diabetes mallitus. Mishri is ideally taken after a meal. This is because it can act as a terrific mouth freshener,” he concluded.
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