Molasses has been imported into the United States from the Caribbean Islands since the time of the early colonists. In fact, it was the most popular sweetener used until the late 19th century since it was much more affordable than refined sugar, which was very expensive at that time.
Sticky History
In some respects, molasses has had a rather sticky history with at least two important historical events centering around this sweet food product. The first is the Molasses Act of 1733, a tariff passed by England to try to discourage the colonists from trading with areas of the West Indies that were not under British rule. This legislation is thought to be one of the events that catalyzed pre-revolutionary colonial dissent and unrest.
Great Molasses Flood
It is not often that a fateful tragedy occurs that centers around food, but unfortunately, in 1919, one such event did occur. The event is referred to as the Great Molasses Flood and occurred when a molasses storage tank holding over two million gallons of molasses broke, and its sticky content came pouring throughout the city streets of Boston, Massachusetts, traveling as fast as 35 miles per hour and creating a thirty-foot tidal wave of sweetener. Unfortunately, this was not a sweet matter as twenty-one people died and significant amounts of property were destroyed
Blackstrap Molasses Popularity – Get it Here
Blackstrap molasses gained in popularity in the mid-20th century with the advent of the health food movement. Today, the largest producers of this sweetener are India, Brazil, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines, and the United States.
In addition to providing quickly assimilated carbohydrates, blackstrap can increase your energy by helping to replenish your iron stores. Blackstrap molasses is a very good source of iron. Particularly for menstruating women, who are more at risk for iron deficiency, boosting iron stores with blackstrap molasses is a good idea–especially because, in comparison to red meat, a well-known source of iron, blackstrap provides more iron for fewer calories and is totally fat-free. Iron is an integral component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen from the lungs to all body cells, and is also part of key enzyme systems for energy production and metabolism. If you’re pregnant or lactating, your need for iron increases. Growing children and adolescents also have increased needs for iron.
No Chemical Molasses Is Key
Look for blackstrap molasses that are unsulphured since not only does it not contain this processing chemical to which some people are sensitive, but it also has a cleaner and more clarified taste. Blackstrap molasses made from organic sugar cane is also available in some markets.
Molasses should be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator or a cool, dry place. Unopened containers should keep for about one year, while opened containers should keep for about 6 months. Get yours here. Highest quality available.
Linking Blackstrap Molasses to TheHerbProf.com
Blackstrap molasses is a hidden gem in the world of natural remedies, and at TheHerbProf.com, we’re all about unearthing these treasures! Here’s how we connect the dots:
- Molasses 101: We provide the lowdown on blackstrap molasses, its nutritional profile, and health benefits.
- Natural Remedies: Our site offers a range of remedies using blackstrap molasses for various health conditions.
- Recipes Galore: Who said healthy can’t be tasty? We share delicious recipes incorporating blackstrap molasses.
- Safety Measures: While natural, it’s important to use blackstrap molasses safely. We guide you on this.
- Community Bonding: Connect with fellow molasses enthusiasts on our platform. Share experiences and tips!
So, whether you’re a long-time fan of blackstrap molasses or just starting your journey, TheHerbProf.com is your one-stop-shop. Remember, a spoonful of molasses keeps the doctor away… or was it an apple? Well, why not both!
References:
Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley