These Health Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses May Surprise You
Blackstrap molasses is the key to making your baked beans taste so delicious, but did you know it's also good for your health? See the list.
You probably have a jar of molasses in your pantry or kitchen cupboard—it’s the key ingredient in your baked beans and other recipes, giving them that rich, signature flavor and sweetness. But did you know Blackstrap molasses is a type of molasses that contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals that are good for your health? Check out these surprising health benefits!
How is Blackstrap Molasses Made?
Blackstrap molasses is a by-product of the sugar cane refining process, where sugar cane is crushed to extract the sweet juices which are then boiled. The result is molasses in varying degrees of color, thickness, and sweetness. See video, below!
Types of Molasses
Basically, molasses is categorized by how many times the syrup was boiled, and sugar extracted. Molasses is extracted during the first (light), second (dark), or third stage (blackstrap) of boiling. Blackstrap is the darkest, thickest, and most concentrated molasses. It has a robust, bittersweet flavor in comparison to the sweeter light and dark varieties so it’s best used in savory recipes rather than sweets. Blackstrap molasses is also the most nutritious as it contains more essential vitamins and minerals than the other types of molasses. That extra boil concentrates those nutrients.
What Is Unsulfured Molasses?
You’ll also see sulfured or unsulfured varieties. Sulfured means sulfur was added during sugar production to keep the raw sugar cane fresh, kill unwanted bacteria, and whiten the sugar crystals. However, many cooks prefer to use unsulfured molasses to avoid any unpleasant aftertaste. Because molasses isn’t quick to spoil, preservatives aren’t necessary. Unsulfured molasses is also free of sodium dioxide, a preservative and a known allergen.
12 Health Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses
Did you know that there’s another way to keep the doctor away besides an apple a day? It turns out that a spoonful of blackstrap molasses might just do the trick, and it’s not just because of its iron content (one tablespoon contains about 20% of the daily value). Blackstrap molasses is also rich in natural calcium, magnesium, and potassium, as well as manganese, vitamin B6, and selenium. And the best part? One tablespoon has only 42 calories! Check out more amazing health benefits below:
1. Healthy Hair—The anti-aging antioxidants selenium, manganese, and zinc in blackstrap molasses work from the inside out to soften hair, reduce hair loss and graying hair. Take a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses daily for a healthy head of hair.
2. Arthritis Reliever—The anti-inflammatory properties in blackstrap molasses ease the discomfort and symptoms of arthritis by reducing swelling, joint inflammation, and pain.
3. Promotes Strong Healthy Bones—Its rich supply of calcium supports healing and improves bone and connective tissue health.
4. Brain Booster—The calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins in blackstrap molasses fight fatigue, anxiety, and stress while enhancing brain function, mood, and focus.
5. Prevents Anemia—Because blackstrap molasses contains iron, it helps produce hemoglobin and red blood cells to prevent anemia.
6. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels—Its low glycemic index naturally slows glucose and carbohydrate metabolism, producing less insulin. It’s a healthier choice than refined sugar, especially helpful for people with diabetes.
7. Menstrual Relief—The iron, magnesium, and calcium in blackstrap molasses help reduce menstrual cramps and symptoms of PMS.
8. Healthy Skin—Use topically to soften and exfoliate the skin. Its lactic acid content can treat acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. To apply, wet the face and pat blackstrap molasses directed on the skin. Leave for five minutes before removing with a warm, wet cloth.
9. Digestion Aid—If you’re feeling over-full after a big meal, a spoonful of molasses might be the remedy as it stimulates digestion.
10. Constipation Remedy—Blackstrap molasses is a natural stool softener and prevents constipation.
11. Increases Stamina and Energy—Feeling sluggish? Consume a spoonful of blackstrap molasses to boost energy.
12. Natural Sleep Aid—When taken at bedtime, the calcium and magnesium help the body relax and promote restful sleep. Many people mix a tablespoon with warm milk (dairy or non-dairy) for a delicious sleepy-time drink.
It’s no surprise that this high-antioxidant superfood has been used for generations as a home remedy and dietary supplement for a variety of health and nutritional benefits. Nutritionists recommend taking one tablespoon a day to reap these benefits.
Does Molasses Go Bad?
An opened jar of molasses that’s been tightly closed after each use can last about a year. The key to prolonging shelf life is to keep the lid sealed tightly when not in use. Discard at first sign of mold, off-taste, or odor. Refrigeration is not necessary. If you choose to refrigerate, allow the jar to sit at room temperature before using, to make it easier to pour. And buy 100% organic, when possible.
Not Just for Humans!
Blackstrap molasses is great for animals, too. For generations, livestock farmers have used it in cattle, goat, and sheep feed to stimulate the appetite, increase energy, and as a dietary supplement. Your local feedstore most likely carries livestock feed enriched with molasses.
Additionally, dry powdered blackstrap molasses can be used to make compost teas that enrich organic and hydroponic gardening plants and garden soil naturally.
Check out the unusual story of the Great Molasses Flood of 1919!
Deborah Tukua
Deborah Tukua is a natural living, healthy lifestyle writer and author of 7 non-fiction books, including Pearls of Garden Wisdom: Time-Saving Tips and Techniques from a Country Home, Pearls of Country Wisdom: Hints from a Small Town on Keeping Garden and Home, and Naturally Sweet Blender Treats. Tukua has been a writer for the Farmers' Almanac since 2004.
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If you can’t find blackstrap will fancy molasses do the same for you?
If blackstrap molasses is “rich” in Vitamin B (Biotin), then reconsider consuming Blackstrap molasses regularly. Lab test results from a blood draw gave me a warning that excess Biotin (vitamin B6) may increase the following: T-3/T-4 levels (thyroid related hormones), and thirst, insomnia, and urination. Notice whether your vitamin supplement contains more than 100% RDA (“Recommended Daily Allowance)” per Serving Size; Also notice how many capsules (or whatever unit-of-measure) equals their “serving size.” Be aware that a Vitamin B “Complex” may contain “Biotin” without identifying it as Vitamin B-6 — and may contain an excessive amount of Biotin/B6 (far more than 100% RDA per serving size). Also consider the amount of Biotin/B6 you’re already consuming regularly (by way of cereals, wheat products, vitamin-fortified products, and more). I only boost my Vitamin B-6/Biotin intake (keeping the dosage at a minimum) when I feel sluggish, and/or my pulse is lower than normal. I won’t be adding Blackstrap molasses to my daily coffee. I really like ginger molasses cookies, so I’ll read the bakery labels from now on.
I looked it up and Biotin can interfere with the results of that lab test!! Resulting in an inaccurate reading/measurement.
I’ve been taking black trap molasses scent my grandmother years n now that I’m a grandmother I share this with my grandchildren n yes still have my beautiful salt n pepper full hair still 5 feet 6 tall n I look pretty healthy for a grandma
I had muscle pain in my quadriceps after a hard workout one time, I drank some molasses and within 5 days the pain disappeared!
Wow I’m so excited nd happy to hear about the benefits of black strap molasses.I didn’t know that it’s so powerful.I got a bottle in my cupboard which was used by my late husband nd he was very healthy bt I think it has expired cos is there since 2020. I’m so thrilled that I’m gonna buy myself a bottle for my health Nd this gray hair.Thanks a million for all the good comments about this revelation.
Do the pills work the same?
I’m taking it everyday to combat premature grey hair. I have only taken it for a few months so my hair hasn’t changed yet but other strange benefits I’ve noticed are better skin and way more energy. I had a flaky rash on my back for about 8 years that completely went away. I believe it was the molasses because I’m not taking anything else!
Apple dip recipe
1/3 cup blackstrap molasses
1/3 cup tahini butter (made from finely ground sesame seeds)
Stir patiently until blended. Dip sliced apples in (skin on, washed, is healthier if you don’t mind the texture). Peanut butter or other nut butters can be substituted, but tahini and molasses somehow makes the best taste and texture blend. These two ingredients make for plenty of flavor and health, but you could add spices if you’d like (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cardamon, etc.)
This sounds wonderful. I’m going to try it. Thanks!
Will Black Strap Molasses help my restless leg syndrome? And would I need any other supplements with it?
I take a good magnesium supplement before bed which helped stop my RLS.
Can you bake cookies with black strap molasses and get the same health benefits?
I make cookies all the time with Black strap molasses along with peanut butter chips. It’s so good and so healthy. It taste like chocolate which I’m allergic to. So it’s a win win for me. I recently poured it over vanilla ice cream and it’s heavenly.