Karupatti: A traditional sweetener and its health benefits

Origin and Other Names of Karupatti

Karupatti is a healthy natural sweetener originated in Tamil Nadu, typically in Thoothukudi and surrounding districts like Tirunelveli and Madurai. It is also known as "Palm Jaggery, PanaVellam or Karuppu Vellam". It is made by boiling the sap that would change into a natural sweet since it preserves its natural minerals and is made chemical-free.  People have been using Karupatti for its health benefits more than its sweet taste. 

Let us explore its preparation, and health benefits.

How Karupatti Is Made

Karupatti is made from sap of palmyra palm tree, from January to May. The juice drips into clay pots after slicing the tip of the palm flower. Fermentation is stopped in these pots by utilizing slaked lime. During the summer months, it is known as "Padaneer" juice and is a refreshing coolant drink. The traditional way of serving it in Tamil Nadu involves using palm-leaf cups. After collection, the juice is filtered, and boiled in iron vats until it reaches a thick consistency. When it gets cold, the thick liquid is poured into molds like coconut shells. The Karupatti becomes thick and ready to use. 

Speciality of Palm Jaggery

Karupatti is made without the use of chemicals such as white sugar. This recipe is unique and non-chemical. People choose karupatti over white sugar because it stores all the minerals from the palm tree sap. 

Nutrition Benefits

Karupatti fights against anemia and also enhances blood levels as it contains iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Calcium builds strong bones and Magnesium supports the nerves. Potassium is good for muscles and heart.

Health Benefits of Karupatti

Helps in Digestion

Karupatti helps digest food without causing stomach trouble. Cooling the stomach after having meals, is one of the benefits of palm jaggery and it is more helpful during the summer season. 

Improves Energy

Karupatti keeps you active and more energetic for a longer time as it contains carbohydrates which releases energy gradually. This is where it stands out from regular sugar which gives only quick energy. 

Helps During Pregnancy

Palm jaggery contains antioxidants, which prevent cell damage and help with common pregnancy issues. It is good to add in food from the 7th month of pregnancy. 

Helps in Weight Loss

When palm jaggery is consumed in the right quantity, it helps reduce unwanted fats and water storage, balance the body's water level. 

Natural Body Cleanser

By eliminating every unwanted chemical substances from the body parts like stomach, intestines, and lungs, Karupatti helps people to breathe easier.

Fight Against Cold and Cough

Dissolving palm jaggery in tea or warm water relieves sore throat. In a natural way, it helps cure cough, cold, and throat infections during the winter season.

Cures Joint Pain

Calcium is good for bones, palm jaggery contains a high amount of calcium, which relieves joint pain and bone problems. Palm jaggery is recommended to be mixed with ginger or milk for better results.

Good for Skin Health

Many women added karupatti in their regular skincare routine to reduce skin problems like pimples, acne, and wrinkles. It is the best natural way to make skin soft and glow by consuming karupatti regularly. 

Recipes with Palm Jaggery

Palm jaggery is the best and tastiest replacement of white sugar in beverages like tea and coffee. Crush a small piece of karupatti and use it as a syrup or as a garnish for payasam, ladoos or payasam. We are the fourth generation of our sweet shop, M.S.Shanmuganadar Mittai Kadai,  providing pure karupatti for a rich, natural sweetness, and savouries like karupatti sevu where true essence meets authentic tradition.

Palm Jaggery V/s Regular Jaggery

Palm Jaggery is made from sap of palm trees, unlike normal jaggery (vellam) which is made from sugar cane juice. Traditionally, villagers prepared karupatti using their old-style preparation methods. It has a deeper flavor and higher health benefits. Factory made jaggery is common. Karupatti brings purity and special taste to its recipes. 

Storage Tips

To avoid spoilage, palm jaggery should be stored in an air-tight container. You can save the unused extract, in the solid state, but not the liquid and that should be refrigerated. Also avoid moisture and direct sunlight. If stored properly, solid palm jaggery will remain fresh for months, with the same flavor and nutritional value. 

Conclusion

Panavellam is a traditional sweet and healthy choice that helps in digestion, and it is the tastiest replacement for white sugar. Choose karupatti over regular sugar which helps in weight loss and balance the body's water level. Enjoy the native and traditional taste with the benefits of nature.