Does sugar cane reduce inflammation?

December 7, 2025 •

2 min read

Traditional medicine systems in places like India have long used sugarcane for its medicinal properties, including its perceived anti-inflammatory effects. This traditional wisdom has prompted modern scientific inquiry into the plant's compounds and their physiological impact on the body.

Quick Summary

Unrefined sugarcane products contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, suggesting potential benefits. These effects differ significantly from highly processed, refined sugar.

Key Points

Rich in Antioxidants: Unrefined sugarcane contains potent antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols that help fight inflammation by reducing oxidative stress.
Modulates Inflammatory Pathways: Studies show that compounds in sugarcane can regulate inflammatory pathways and suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines in laboratory settings.
Unrefined vs. Refined: The anti-inflammatory benefits are associated with unrefined products like fresh juice or jaggery, not processed white table sugar, which is devoid of beneficial compounds.
Scientific Evidence is Growing: While animal and in vitro studies support its anti-inflammatory effects, more human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits conclusively.
Requires Moderation: Because sugarcane is high in natural sugars, it must be consumed in moderation, especially by individuals with diabetes, to avoid negative health effects.
Holistic Approach: Sugarcane can be a part of an anti-inflammatory diet, but it is not a substitute for a balanced eating pattern rich in other fruits, vegetables, and whole foods.

The Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Unrefined Sugarcane

For generations, sugarcane has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, with its soothing properties recognized long before modern science. Pharmacological studies now support these traditional uses, confirming sugarcane's anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant effects. Unlike refined sugar which lacks nutrients, unrefined sugarcane products like fresh juice and jaggery retain beneficial phytochemicals crucial for its potential anti-inflammatory action.

The Bioactive Compounds Responsible

Research identifies specific compounds in sugarcane responsible for its biological activities, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and fatty acids.

Flavonoids: Sugarcane juice contains flavonoids like apigenin and luteolin, potent antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
Polyphenolic Compounds: Other polyphenols in sugarcane support antioxidant capacity and help regulate inflammatory pathways.
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids from sugarcane wax show anti-inflammatory effects in animal studies.
Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins like C and minerals such as potassium contribute to immune health and potentially reduce inflammation.

Understanding the Mechanism of Action

Sugarcane compounds exert anti-inflammatory effects at a cellular level.

Antioxidant Power: Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, protecting cells and preventing inflammation triggered by oxidative stress.
Modulation of Inflammatory Pathways: Flavonoids can interfere with pro-inflammatory pathways like NF-κB and suppress inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α.

Unrefined Sugarcane vs. Refined Sugar: A Critical Distinction

The effects of unrefined sugarcane differ significantly from refined sugar. Unrefined products retain beneficial compounds, while refined sugar is stripped of them and is linked to increased inflammation.


Feature	Unrefined Sugarcane Products (Juice, Jaggery)	Refined Sugar (White Table Sugar)
Source	From the whole sugarcane plant.	Processed from sugarcane or sugar beets.
Nutrient Content	Retains antioxidants, polyphenols, minerals.	Nutrients mostly removed.
Inflammatory Effect	Contains anti-inflammatory compounds.	Excessive consumption can contribute to inflammation.
Health Impact	Associated with benefits in moderation.	Linked to increased risk of chronic diseases.

Evidence and Cautions

In vitro and animal studies support the anti-inflammatory properties of unrefined sugarcane, showing it can regulate inflammatory markers. However, human clinical trials are limited, requiring more research for conclusive benefits in people.

A word of caution: Sugarcane is high in natural sugar. Consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consult a healthcare professional if you have conditions like diabetes.

A Broader Anti-Inflammatory Approach

Sugarcane can complement an anti-inflammatory diet, but a holistic approach includes a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods and excess sugar.

Conclusion Does sugar cane reduce inflammation? Unrefined sugarcane products offer compounds with anti-inflammatory potential supported by science, unlike refined sugar which can promote inflammation. Enjoying fresh juice or jaggery moderately provides antioxidants, but it's not a sole solution for inflammation. A balanced diet and lifestyle are key. For more on sugarcane's health aspects, refer to resources like the NIH website.

Phytochemical profile of sugarcane and its potential health aspects

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, fresh sugarcane juice contains anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols. Studies in animals and labs suggest these can help reduce inflammation, but human trials are limited.

No, refined white sugar is a highly processed product that strips away the beneficial compounds found in the whole sugarcane plant. Excessive intake of refined sugar is linked to increased inflammation.

Since sugarcane is high in natural sugar, consuming large amounts can increase calorie intake and may cause blood sugar spikes. It should be consumed in moderation, and individuals with diabetes should consult a doctor.

The main compounds include flavonoids such as apigenin and tricin, polyphenols, and fatty acids found in the plant's wax. These work by neutralizing free radicals and modulating inflammatory pathways.

A healthy anti-inflammatory diet involves a broad range of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Sugarcane can be a part of this diet, but it is one component and not a standalone solution for managing inflammation.

Some traditional uses and preliminary studies suggest sugarcane's anti-inflammatory properties may help with conditions like arthritis, but medical advice should be sought. It is not a replacement for professional treatment.

Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals that can cause cellular damage and lead to inflammation. Sugarcane's antioxidants neutralize these free radicals, thereby protecting against oxidative stress and its inflammatory consequences.