Rock candy, commonly known as mishri in India, is a form of unrefined sugar made from sugarcane or palm dates. It is sweet in taste and characterized by its large sugar crystals.
Compared to refined sugar, rock candy is less sweet and considered a healthier alternative. Beyond its culinary use, it has long been valued in traditional Indian remedies for its potential medicinal properties. It contains not only sugar but also trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
In various regions, rock candy is used as a natural aid to manage conditions like asthma, anemia, respiratory issues, cold, cough, high blood pressure, and kidney-related problems.
Though it might be surprising that a type of sugar can serve medicinal purposes, here are a few time-tested remedies using mishri:
# For Cold and Cough ReliefAncient Indian traditions recommend sucking on a small piece of mishri to relieve cold and cough. It helps soothe the throat, loosen mucus, and ease discomfort.
# For Bad BreathMix a pinch of cumin seeds with half a teaspoon of rock candy and consume the blend to combat mouth odor.
# To Fight FatigueCombine half a teaspoon each of cow ghee and rock candy with a few groundnuts. Eating this mixture may help revitalize the body and reduce tiredness.
# For Cold SymptomsGrind together 2 almonds, 1 teaspoon of rock candy, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper powder. Mix this powder in milk and consume it for 3–4 days to help relieve cold symptoms.
# For Sore ThroatBlend ½ teaspoon each of black pepper, ghee, and rock candy. This mixture can help soothe a sore throat.
# To Improve Memory and EyesightMix small quantities of mishri with almonds and cumin seeds. Consuming this regularly at bedtime is believed to enhance memory and vision.
# To Boost ImmunityA combination of rock candy, almonds, and black pepper, taken twice a week, may support overall immunity.
# For Kidney Stone ReliefMix 2 teaspoons of onion juice with 1 teaspoon of rock candy. Consuming this daily for a week is a traditional remedy thought to assist in managing kidney stones.