Maranta aundinaceae (KEYURA)

We do not come across the reference of keyura in brhat trayi and nighantu granthas.  However, kaiyadeva nighantu quotes it as keluta (not keyura).  From the available descriptions it is evident that keyura is a turberous root which is used as a vegetable.  The author is of the opinion that it should be identified with Maranta aundinaceae (arrow root).

Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea), is a large perennial herb of genus Maranta found in rainforest habitats. Arrowroot is also the name of the edible starch from the rhizomes (rootstock) of West Indian arrowroot. Maranta arundinacea should not be confused with other plants with similar common names. These include:

• Sagittaria species, sometimes called “arrowhead” and used as a root vegetable
• Pluchea sericea, sometimes called “arrowweed”, which also has edible roots.
• Zamia pumila, a cycad sometimes known as Florida arrowroot.

Arrowroot is used as an article of diet in the form of biscuits, puddings, jellies, cakes, hot sauces, etc.