Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea)

Maranta arundinacea, commonly known as arrowroot, is a perennial tropical herb in the Marantaceae family. Native to Central and South America, it is cultivated for its starchy rhizomes, which are processed into a fine, easily digestible flour used in cooking, baking, and as a thickening agent. Traditionally, various parts of the plant—including rhizomes and leaves—have been used in folk medicine for digestive support and as a gentle dietary supplement. With its culinary, medicinal, and agricultural significance, Maranta arundinacea remains an important species in tropical agriculture and traditional food systems.