BAMBOO
[BAMBUSA ARUNDINACEA =GIGANTICHOLA MAXIMA]
Bamboo
is a grass known for its gregarious growth [90 cm a day =3 feet a day] It is
native to Asia and the nature of the plant is to form ‘culms’. Culm refers to a
stock like base from which several branch-like plants emerge.
The
stem is hollow except for intermittent cross walls that divide the stem in to
small cavities. Though hollow the stem is strong as to provide structural
support for activities like masonry/wall painting /white-washing etc.,. It also
helps to erect barricades for regulation of human movement in festivities and
so on. Bamboo is also used in making bridges and ladders for emergency uses.
Though
mostly thought of for structural support, of late Bamboo rice is gaining
popularity due to its medicinal qualities in a food stuff. Blood sugar,
Cholesterol and joint pain are taken care of by bamboo rice [moongil arisi]
sold in several departmental stores –now-a –days.
Some
typical phytosterols and ricxh fibre in bamboo rice effectively regulate LDL
category fats from being absorbed. Anti- inflammatory compounds, Calcium and
phosphorous in bamboo rice helps to minimize joint pains in humans.
Recommended
to soak rice for 30 minutes to soften the texture and pressure-cooked for about
25 -30 minutes in a combination of 1: 2 for rice /water. The food is receiving
attention in S.Indian town and cities while villages have a long-standing tradition
for bamboo rice.