Sugarcane-Based Traditional Sweeteners and Health Benefits

Sugarcane, an ancient crop, has been cultivated for its sweet nectar-like juice since ancient times, as evidenced by mentions in Indian literature dating back to 1400–1000 BC. The plant, Saccharum officinarum, is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts for its medicinal properties. Primarily grown for sugar production, sugarcane is also valued for its non-refined sugars like jaggery and Khandsari. Sugarcane cultivation spans tropical to subtropical regions and has gained attention as a bioenergy crop and for its traditional sweeteners, known for their health benefits. Chewing sugarcane, a practice prevalent in the Pacific Islands, is known for its oral health benefits and nutritional value. Ornamental varieties of sugarcane, known for their attractive colors and stripes, have historical significance and are gaining popularity as ornamental plants globally. Sugarcane juice, a popular nonalcoholic energy drink, is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Its nutrient composition makes it a healthy beverage, particularly popular in tropical countries. Preservation of sugarcane juice poses challenges due to its susceptibility to spoilage. Various preservation techniques, including pasteurization and the addition of chemical preservatives, are employed to maintain its freshness and taste. Jaggery, a traditional sweetener, is widely consumed in many countries and is known for its health benefits. The production of jaggery, however, has seen a decline in recent years despite its nutritional value and economic significance. Other value-added products derived from sugarcane, such as liquid jaggery, granular/powder jaggery, sugarcane wine, cookies, cakes, and ice cream, offer diverse market potential. These products, fortified with other nutritious ingredients, cater to the demand for healthier sweetening options. However, challenges in preserving the freshness and taste of sugarcane juice remain, highlighting the need for further research and technological advancements in processing and preservation techniques. Sugarcane and its products hold significant medicinal importance in traditional medicine across various cultures. Historically, they have been used in countries like China, the Philippines, La Reunion Guiana, and Brazil, as well as in the Ayurveda and Unani systems of medicine in India. The Latin species name “officinarum,” meaning “of dispensaries or pharmacy,” reflects their widespread traditional medicinal use. Sugarcane stems and roots have been used since ancient times in Ayurveda and Unani systems, with raw sugarcane being recommended for maintaining a healthy body. Various parts of the sugarcane plant, either alone or in combination with other ingredients, have been used to treat ailments such as joint pain and skin problems. In traditional medicine practices, sugarcane juice is used for a variety of purposes, including as a nutritional drink, and diuretic, and to improve kidney function. It is also used to treat hiccups, improve bowel movements, relieve thirst and fatigue, reduce burning sensations, and as a demulcent for irritation and inflammation. Additionally, sugarcane juice is known for its blood-purifying, antiseptic, and tonic properties. Jaggery, a product derived from sugarcane, is valued for its medicinal properties, including its ability to prevent anemia, reduce the toxicity of arsenic, stimulate the digestive system, improve bowel movements, cleanse the liver, and boost immunity. Jaggery is also rich in antioxidants and minerals, making it effective against free-radical damage and menstrual problems, and beneficial for respiratory health, and weight loss. Technology for the production of a variety of sweeteners and other valued added products from sugarcane juice and its products are available. To sustain sugarcane agriculture, product diversification is inevitable as the crop is vulnerable to a boom-bust cycle coupled with biotic and abiotic stresses. Hence, product diversification and value addition for its therapeutic and nutritional value need to be exploited on a large scale.