Rock Sugar or Mishri as it is known in Hindi is a tiny, crystal, unrefined form of sugar. This nutritious candy also known as Bhura sugar or Khand in other parts of the country is made after evaporating sugarcane juice and is a healthy substitute for the normal table sugar.

The process of crystallization and recrystallization of Mishri makes it easily digestible and leaves a cooling effect on the body.

Rock Sugar is one of the common ingredients we munch on after a scrumptious meal along with fennel to promote digestion. It also serves as an amazing mouth freshener.

This tiny candy comes with a host of health benefits. Read on to know more.

Health Benefits

Treats Common Cold And Cough

A 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 a 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 the digestion immediately and serves as an after-meal dessert.

Boosts Energy

Mishri is an instant source of energy, that refreshes your dull mood and boosts your 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.

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 the 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 confectionaries. 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, for preventing cataracts. Consume it along with milk to improve 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 prevent gastric problems. Eat half a teaspoon of mishri along with fennel seeds for deriving benefits.
 
Additional Benefits

Treats Nausea: Mishri is an elixir when it comes to relieving nausea and vomiting sensations. By keeping these tiny sweet it in your mouth, you can soothe the unease that may have been triggered by acidity. When travelling in the mountains, keep some mishri handy and pop them as soon as you feel nauseated to minimize the effect of mountain sickness.

Stops Nosebleed

Mishri is one of the most simple but powerful hacks to stop a nosebleed. Since the crystals have the power to regenerate blood circulation in the body, they can work wonders. Simply put some pieces of mishri in water and wait for them to dissolve. Put some drops of this water in the nostril. It will stop the nosebleed instantly.

Augments Brain Power

Mishri has been used as an effective medicine for bolstering brain health. Mishri can be consumed in the morning with a few almonds to enhance brain power and memory. Besides improving memory functioning, it can help to release mental fatigue.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Is Mishri Better Than Sugar?

Yes, Mishri (rock sugar) is often a better choice than refined sugar owing to its minimal processing and potent health-benefiting traits. It contains trace minerals and is used in traditional remedies for digestion and respiratory issues. However, nutritionally, it still consists mainly of sucrose, similar to regular sugar, and provides the same number of calories.

Can Diabetic Patients Eat Mishri?

No, diabetic patients should avoid mishri, as it is high in sucrose, similar to refined sugar. Consuming mishri can spike blood sugar levels, which can be harmful for people with diabetes.

What Is Mishri Made Of?

Mishri is made from crystallized sugarcane juice or palm sap. The juice is boiled and allowed to cool slowly, forming large, clear crystals, known as rock sugar.

Is Rock Sugar Better Than Sugar?

Rock sugar (mishri) is less processed than refined sugar and may contain trace minerals, but nutritionally, both are very similar. Both are primarily composed of sucrose and can contribute to weight gain or blood sugar spikes when consumed in large amounts.

How Much Mishri Per Day?

For a healthy adult, mishri should be consumed in moderation, similar to any form of sugar. Ideally, limit total sugar intake, including mishri, to less than 25 grams (6 teaspoons) per day for women and 37.5 grams (9 teaspoons) for men, according to the American Heart Association.

What Is The Healthiest Sugar?

No "healthy" sugar exists, but some less processed forms like coconut sugar, raw honey, or maple syrup may contain trace nutrients and antioxidants. However, they still contain calories and should be consumed in moderation.

 What Is The Best Alternative To Sugar?

Healthiest alternatives to sugar include:

Stevia (a natural zero-calorie sweetener)

Monk fruit (another zero-calorie, natural sweetener)

Erythritol (sugar alcohol with fewer calories) These alternatives do not raise blood sugar levels like regular sugar.

 Why Is Mishri Costlier Than Sugar?

Mishri is costlier than regular sugar because of the more intricate crystallization process involved in its production. It takes more time and effort to produce mishri than to process refined sugar.

(This article is reviewed by Preeti Sharma, Wellness Expert)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:

https://www.thepharmajournal.com/archives/2022/vol11issue6/PartQ/11-6-112-286.pdf

https://upsma.org/mishri-vs-sugar-uncovering-the-best-choice-and-its-justification/