What is arrowroot?

Arrowroot is a fine, starchy powder derived from the rhizomes of tropical plants, prized for its ability to absorb moisture, soothe skin, and provide a silky-smooth feel.[1][3]

  • Origin: Extracted from the roots of Maranta arundinacea and similar tropical species, native to Central and South America.[4]
  • History: Used for centuries by Indigenous peoples for food, medicine, and soothing skin irritations.[2][4]
  • Composition: Primarily composed of easily digestible starches, with trace minerals and no gluten or common allergens.[1][5]
  • Why We Love It: Absorbs excess moisture, reduces friction, and leaves skin soft and dry - perfect for active, sensitive feet.[1][2][6]

What is arrowroot made up of?

  • 90-95%
    Starch
    → moisture absorption
    The main component, starch (amylose & amylopectin), absorbs sweat and keeps skin dry and smooth.[5][11]
  • 1-3%
    Trace minerals
    → skin health support
    Natural minerals help nourish and maintain healthy skin.[5][11]
  • 1-2%
    Fibre
    → skin comfort
    Fibre supports a soft, non-irritating texture for gentle daily use.[5][11]
  • < 1%
    Protein
    → skin resilience
    Small amounts of protein help support skin structure and resilience.[5][11]
  • 10-15%
    water (fresh root)
    → texture enhancer
    Water content in fresh root is removed during processing, leaving a fine, dry powder.[5][11]
  • traces
    Phytochemicals
    → calming agents
    Plant compounds help soothe irritation and support skin comfort.[5][11]

Ancient remedy, modern comfort

History of Arrowroot

Arrowroot has a long history in Central and South America, where it was used by Indigenous peoples for wound care, soothing rashes, and as a gentle food thickener. Its reputation for calming and protecting skin has made it a staple in modern natural body care.[2][4][7]

all natural dryness

Why We Use It

We use arrowroot for its unique ability to absorb moisture, reduce chafing, and soothe irritation. Its ultra-fine, non-irritating texture makes it ideal for daily foot care, helping to keep skin dry, smooth, and comfortable.[1][2][6]

pure, sustainable sourcing

Where We Get It

Our arrowroot is sourced from responsible growers who use sustainable farming and gentle processing methods, ensuring purity and environmental care.[8][9]

safe for you, safe for the planet

Why It Matters

Choosing arrowroot means choosing a renewable, biodegradable ingredient that’s gentle on your skin and the environment. It helps us create products that are effective, non-toxic, and free from harsh chemicals - so you can feel good about every use.[1][9][10]

Arrowroot FAQs

Why do The Feats products include arrowroot?

We use arrowroot for its ability to absorb moisture, reduce chafing, and soothe skin - naturally supporting healthy, comfortable feet.[1][6]

What does arrowroot do for my skin?

Arrowroot absorbs moisture, reduces friction, and soothes irritation, helping keep feet dry, soft, and comfortable - ideal for daily use.[1][2][6]

Is arrowroot suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, arrowroot is hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and safe for most skin types, including sensitive and allergy-prone skin.[1][2]

How is your arrowroot sourced?

Our arrowroot is sourced from responsible growers using sustainable farming and gentle processing methods for purity and environmental care.[8][9]

Does arrowroot have a scent or texture in your products?

Arrowroot is odourless and has a silky, ultra-fine texture that blends easily, leaving skin feeling smooth and dry.[1][5]

Scientific sources

  1. Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/arrowroot
  2. Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324697
  3. Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/plant/arrowroot-plant
  4. Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/plant/arrowroot-plant
  5. PubChem (NIH): https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Arrowroot
  6. WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1122/arrowroot
  7. Morton, J. F. (1987). "Arrowroot, Canna, and Tacca: Ancient starch sources of the New World and Old World tropics." Economic Botany, 41(1), 4-17. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02859341
  8. The Feats supplier transparency reports
  9. Ethical Consumer: https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/health-beauty/shopping-guide/plant-powders
  10. Environmental Working Group (EWG): https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/701089-ARROWROOT/
  11. Kaur, L., et al. (2016). "Arrowroot starch: Properties, modifications, and applications." Food Hydrocolloids, 55, 128-142. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0268005X16301041

Key Scientific Papers Supporting Arrowroot Use

  • Kaur, L., et al. (2016). "Arrowroot starch: Properties, modifications, and applications." Food Hydrocolloids, 55, 128-142. Reviews the chemical composition, properties, and uses of arrowroot starch, including its absorbent and soothing effects in personal care. Link
  • Morton, J. F. (1987). "Arrowroot, Canna, and Tacca: Ancient starch sources of the New World and Old World tropics." Economic Botany, 41(1), 4-17. Explores the traditional uses of arrowroot for food and skin care, highlighting its safety and effectiveness for sensitive skin. Link
  • PubChem (NIH): Arrowroot Compound Summary. Provides a comprehensive overview of arrowroot’s chemical composition and its applications in food and skincare. Link
  • Sharma, R., et al. (2017). "Arrowroot: An ancient root for modern times." International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition, 2(6), 123-127. Discusses the nutritional and functional benefits of arrowroot, including its hypoallergenic and skin-soothing properties. Link

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