Agaves are famous for being the source of tequila—produced from Agave tequilana (tequila has at least 51% A. tequilana). Mezcal, on the other hand, is produced from any type of Agave. They also have differences in production. And no, tequila doesn’t have to have to be produced with a worm—this is thought to be a marketing ploy that the worms (which are larvae of a moth) from Agave plants were placed in mezcal (and then later tequila).
I find it funny that “Tequila” is defined in the Urban Dictionary as “A Spanish word meaning, ‘I don’t remember doing that’”.
Mexican guidelines have been developed by the Mexican government and agave syrup producers that prohibit using any ingredient, sugar or food additive to produce Agave syrup other than agave plants.
Agave plants are also the source of Agave nectar, an alternative sweetener that is produced by several species of Agave, including A. tequilana. Agave syrup contains fructose, and although it has a relatively low glycemic index, it is known to have one of the highest contents of fructose, which has known negative effects on the body (such as on liver function and promoting obesity). Agave syrup, however, is a good source of minerals, vitamin and polyphenols compared with traditional sweeteners.
Agave plants have rich history as a useful and symbolic plant. Not only was the Agave an important food source for the Mexican and Native American tribes—the flower stalks and leaf bases were roasted, and the juice consumed directly—but they also were used for fiber sources (from the leaves), for roof thatching, clothing, robes and paper, as well as medicine (the sap and juice).
The Agave needles have also been used for making tattoos, and the saponins in the leaves make them useful as a soap-substitute. The medicinal uses of certain species of Agave have scientific substantiation. For example, A. americana has been found to have antibacterial, wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been long used as a treatment for wounds (as a poultice), as well as used for digestion, ulcers, liver conditions and toothache, among other conditions.
Among the interesting secondary metabolites and active phytochemicals in Agave are the steroidal saponins, which are being investigated for a number of medicinal applications, as well as being a source for the production of other steroidal drugs.
#MedicinalPlants #Ethnopharm #Ethnobotany #agave #tequila #mezcal #fructose #steroids #agavenectar #sweetener
Photo by Los Muertos Crew