In Indonesia, granulated arenga palm sugar is called gula semut aren ( gula mean : sugar, semut mean : ant). According to old story it is because they shaped like a nest of ants on the ground which pulverized and loose. Meanwhile Aren is refers to the native palm tree, Arenga pinnata. Arenga palm sugar tends to contain more potassium and iron than white sugar. These nutrients can help treat menstrual cramps and relieve the pain. Arenga palm sugar also helps increase energy which is useful for expelling weakness when menstruation comes. Arenga palm sugar contains high iron.
