Is Molasses Anti-Inflammatory? Separating Fact from Folk Remedy

November 17, 2025 •

4 min read

While anecdotal evidence has long suggested molasses as an anti-inflammatory remedy, recent research in animal models and in vitro studies shows it may have a protective effect against inflammation. However, comprehensive human trials are still needed to confirm these findings.

Quick Summary

This article explores the scientific basis for molasses' anti-inflammatory properties, focusing on its antioxidant content and key minerals. It addresses the types of molasses, the current research on inflammation markers, and the important distinction between folk remedies and scientifically validated health claims.

Key Points

Antioxidant Richness: Molasses, especially blackstrap, is packed with polyphenols, potent antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, a key driver of inflammation.
Mineral Content: The high concentration of magnesium in blackstrap molasses is particularly significant, as magnesium deficiency is linked to increased inflammation.
Mixed Research: Current evidence comes primarily from laboratory and animal studies, which show promising anti-inflammatory effects but are not yet fully conclusive for human health.
Human Trials Needed: There is a notable lack of comprehensive human clinical trials, so the definitive anti-inflammatory benefits in people remain unproven.
Moderation is Key: Despite its nutritional superiority to refined sugar, molasses is still a sugar source and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Folk vs. Fact: While traditionally used as a folk remedy, modern scientific inquiry is beginning to unravel the mechanisms behind these anecdotal claims, though more research is required.

The Nutritional Power of Molasses

Molasses is a thick, dark syrup created as a byproduct during the sugar refining process. While many people associate it with baking, different varieties, particularly blackstrap molasses, are often touted for their health benefits. The degree of processing determines the molasses type, with blackstrap being the darkest, thickest, and most nutrient-dense, containing the lowest sugar content of all molasses products. Unlike highly refined white sugar, blackstrap molasses retains significant amounts of vitamins and minerals absorbed from the sugarcane plant.

Key Nutrients with Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Several compounds found in molasses contribute to its purported anti-inflammatory properties. These include:

Antioxidants: Molasses is a rich source of polyphenols and other antioxidants that combat oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress is a major driver of inflammation and chronic disease. Research suggests that blackstrap molasses possesses significant antioxidant activity, which is linked to its potential anti-inflammatory action.
Magnesium: Molasses contains a good amount of magnesium, a mineral vital for various bodily functions. Studies have shown that magnesium deficiency can lead to inflammation and may play a role in the progression of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, the magnesium content in molasses may indirectly help manage inflammation.
Other minerals: Blackstrap molasses is also a source of other beneficial minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium, which support overall health and may indirectly influence inflammatory processes.

Scientific Research and Findings

Despite being a popular folk remedy, scientific evidence specifically on molasses' anti-inflammatory effects in humans is limited. However, several in vitro and animal studies offer intriguing insights into its potential mechanisms.

In vitro studies: Some laboratory studies using cell cultures have shown that certain components of molasses, particularly polyphenols, can modulate inflammatory pathways. One study on human blood cultures, for instance, found that sugarcane molasses increased the production of both pro-inflammatory (IL-6) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) markers under specific conditions. A more recent in vitro study showed that sugar-free molasses could increase anti-inflammatory cytokine TGF-β while decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN-γ in immune cells from ulcerative colitis patients. This suggests a potential role in immune modulation.
Animal studies: Animal models have also provided evidence of molasses' anti-inflammatory potential. For example, a 2025 study on mice with alcohol-induced liver damage showed that a sugarcane molasses polyphenol extract significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, mitigating hepatic inflammation. Other animal studies have shown that molasses can help with gut inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory Comparison: Blackstrap Molasses vs. Other Sweeteners

To better understand molasses' potential, it is helpful to compare it to other common sweeteners. The table below outlines how molasses stacks up against refined sugar and honey in terms of anti-inflammatory potential and nutritional value.


Feature	Blackstrap Molasses	Refined White Sugar	Raw Honey
Processing	Least refined; byproduct of third boil.	Highly refined; all nutrients removed.	Minimally processed; naturally occurring.
Antioxidant Content	High; rich in polyphenols.	None; provides empty calories.	Moderate to high, depending on floral source.
Mineral Content	High in magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium.	None; completely stripped of minerals.	Contains trace minerals and vitamins.
Impact on Inflammation	Potential anti-inflammatory due to antioxidants and minerals.	Pro-inflammatory, associated with chronic disease.	Some anti-inflammatory properties due to antioxidants.
Glycemic Index (GI)	Moderate; lower than refined sugar.	High; causes sharp blood sugar spikes.	Moderate, but can vary.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While molasses offers nutritional advantages over refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake can contribute to high sugar consumption, which is linked to a higher risk of inflammatory conditions and other health problems. Additionally, some in vivo animal studies have shown mixed results, including potential immunosuppressive effects with prolonged exposure. As with any dietary change, consulting a healthcare professional is wise, especially for individuals with chronic inflammatory diseases.

Conclusion: A Promising but Understudied Area

The question, "is molasses anti-inflammatory?" does not have a simple yes or no answer based on current research. The presence of powerful antioxidants and essential minerals, particularly magnesium, points toward a potential anti-inflammatory effect. Laboratory and animal studies have shown promising results, indicating that molasses and its extracts can modulate inflammatory pathways and reduce inflammatory markers. However, the lack of extensive, high-quality human trials means that these benefits are not yet definitively proven for human consumption. While it is a more nutritious alternative to refined sugar, molasses should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, not as a miracle cure for inflammation.

For more in-depth scientific analysis on this topic, a systematic review published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies examines the broader effects of unrefined sugar on inflammatory biomarkers based on preclinical studies, highlighting areas where further research is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Blackstrap molasses is generally considered the most nutrient-dense and is therefore the best option. It is the result of the third boiling of sugarcane syrup, which concentrates the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants while reducing the sugar content compared to lighter molasses.

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that molasses can cure arthritis. However, the magnesium and other anti-inflammatory nutrients in blackstrap molasses may help manage symptoms and reduce pain related to inflammation, but it should not be considered a cure.

While generally safe in moderation, it is best to consult a healthcare provider before adding large amounts of molasses to your diet if you are taking any medications. This is especially important for those managing a chronic inflammatory condition, as research is still ongoing.

Yes, molasses is still a sugar, and excessive intake can contribute to high overall sugar consumption. While blackstrap molasses has a lower glycemic load than refined sugar, moderation is necessary to avoid potential negative health consequences associated with a high-sugar diet.

Molasses has been traditionally used topically for skin conditions, partly due to its lactic acid content. However, this practice is not widely supported by modern scientific evidence, and applying it directly is not a recommended medical treatment for inflamed skin. Consult a dermatologist for appropriate skincare advice.