Botanical: Maranta arundinacea Family: Zingiberaceae (ginger) Other common names: Indian Arrowroot, Maranta Indica, Bamban, Obedience Plant, Maranta Starch Arrowroot is used to soothe and relieve the irritation of inflamed mucous membranes. This easily digested plant is a natural source of calcium and may provide a nourishing diet for convalescents. Arrowroot is thought to be helpful in the treatment of indigestion, bowel complaints and urinary infections. Disclaimer: The information presented herein by Vitamin Depot Online.com is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider. History: Arrowroot is a perennial plant, native to South America that has been naturalized in southern Florida. Cultivated in the tropics for its starchy rootstock, it is an important source of commercial arrowroot and tapioca. The plant, with its leaves and creamy flowers, grows to a height of six feet. Arrowroot's popular name is a corruption of the Aru-root of the Aruac (Arawak) Indians of Central and South America, who used the powder as an antidote to arrow-poison. Moreover, Native Americans in both South and North America applied Arrowroot to wounds from scorpion and black spider bites, and the Maya of Mexico used it to arrest gangrene and smallpox. The many species of Arrowroot are usually distinguished by the place from which they are imported. Beneficial Uses: Arrowroot is now known to be a superior carbohydrate with demulcent properties that will soothe irritated mucous membranes and can aid in the relief of the temporary discomforts of colic and indigestion. It is a rich source of digestible calcium, particularly nourishing to children after weaning and delicate persons during convalescence. Arrowroot is said to be valuable in the treatment of bowel complaints: It is used as a mild laxative but will also help relieve diarrhea. It is said that when taken internally, Arrowroot is a good antidote for vegetable poisons and a remedy for pus in the urine, reaffirming its traditional uses by Native North and South Americans. Recommended Dosage: Take two (2) capsules, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes. Contraindications: Currently, there are no known warnings or contraindications with the use of Arrowroot. Capsule Size: We use only 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose "00" capsules for all of our encapsulated products. (click here for size comparison) Arrowroot - Botanical Powder -- Approximately 600 mg. each.