Palm Sugar Candy (Panagkalkandu) – Natural Unrefined Sweetness from Palmyra Palm

Palm Sugar Candy, also known as Panagkalkandu or Panam Kalkandam, is a traditional, natural sweetener made from the sap of the Palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer). Unlike refined white or brown sugar, this unique palm sugar is minimally processed, retaining valuable nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants that support health while offering a deliciously rich, caramel-like flavor.

What is Panagkalkandu?

Panagkalkandu is crystallized palm sugar produced by evaporating the sap extracted from the flowering clusters of the palmyra or toddy palm. The result is a lightly brown, rock-like candy with smaller crystals compared to cane or beet sugar. It is widely cherished as a natural, unrefined sugar alternative in many traditional kitchens across South India, Sri Lanka, and increasingly among health-conscious consumers worldwide.

Nutritional Profile & Health Benefits

Rich in essential minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, manganese, and copper, palm sugar candy is a source of nutrients that promote brain health, immune support, and overall vitality. It contains a variety of B vitamins, including inositol (Vitamin B8), thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, and choline, which aid in cell formation and metabolic functions.

Palm sugar also provides 16 amino acids, crucial for protein synthesis, cell growth, and repair.

Some key health benefits include:

• Natural body coolant: Helps reduce internal body heat, especially beneficial in warm climates.

• Supports respiratory health: Traditionally used to soothe coughs and heal lung and throat infections.

• Bone strengthening: Nutrients in palm sugar contribute to maintaining healthy bones.

• Antioxidant-rich: Contains polyphenols and flavonoids that combat oxidative stress.

Regional Names and Cultural Significance

This sweetener is known by various names depending on the region:

• Panam Kalkandam or Panagkalkandu in Tamil Nadu (Southern India)

• Panam or Panai Karupetty in Kerala

• Kalkandam in Sri Lanka (Northern provinces)

• Also called Palm Candy or Lump Sugar Palm in English-speaking markets

It is a specialty product cultivated mainly in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu such as Tirunelveli, as well as in northern Sri Lanka—regions celebrated for their traditional production methods preserving the authentic taste and health benefits.

How to Use Palm Sugar Candy

• Natural sweetener: Substitute refined sugar in teas, coffee, desserts, and traditional recipes for a richer taste and added health benefits.

• Cooking ingredient: Ideal for sweetening chutneys, sauces, and South Indian sweets.

• Ayurvedic remedy: Used to soothe coughs and respiratory ailments when dissolved in warm water or herbal decoctions.

Why Choose Herbolaya’s Palm Sugar Candy?

At Herbolaya, we ensure our palm sugar candy is sourced directly from trusted organic farms, harvested and processed traditionally without chemicals or additives. This guarantees the purity, nutrient retention, and authentic flavor of the palm sugar you receive.

Store in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and quality over time.

Experience the wholesome, natural sweetness and time-tested health benefits of Herbolaya Palm Sugar Candy—a perfect blend of tradition and wellness for your everyday needs.