I recently discovered it and proceeded to purchase my first bottle of blackstrap molasses. It seemed like a cruel joke that after buying it, I discovered that its health benefits have been known for generations – my grandmother’s generation, who used it as a health tonic and treatment for anemia. The minerals in the bottle of blackstrap mollas I bought read boldly: iron, calcium, potassium. The presence of these three minerals, along with essential trace elements, make it a popular energy food. The sugarcane refining process that leads to the by-product, molasses, is interesting. Essentially, blackstrap mollas are the residue left over after refining raw sugarcane into white sugar.
These are just a few of the diseases that molasses is said to cure or improve: low iron count, certain cancers, fibroid tumors, iron anemias, sickle cell anemia, acne, arthritis, gray hair, hair loss. There are many testimonials from people who claim that black mollase has helped improve symptoms associated with the aforementioned conditions.
It is not considered the best tasting health food. It is usually mixed in a blender with fruit and juices or milk to make it more palatable. Many try it, even using it as a substitute for sugar in their morning coffee. Those who want to increase their iron count usually take it with lemon juice, because iron is better absorbed with vitamin C.
It is a great tonic for menstrual symptoms. Consistent use is known to not only shorten the time of menstrual cycles, but also replenish lost iron that can lead to anemia-like symptoms during that time of the month, as well as reducing the severity of cramps. Although it is very dense in nutrients, it is very important not to consume too much; This is especially true for men who are more likely than women to accumulate iron.
The sulfur-free molasses I bought came in an unassuming bottle and was at the bottom of the Whole Foods shelf. Who knew this energy food could have so many uses! Blackstrap mollas are likely not in your neighborhood grocery store. You may have to look in a central or whole food market to find it, and there are different forms of blackstrap mollas; For example, sulfur versus sulfur mollases are two options that you will find, so named, because of the sugar cane processing method. Sulfur-free mollases are considered a healthier option.