Herbal Candies: A Potential Source of Health Benefits

Abstract: Candy is a popular product consumed by children, young and elderly alike. The major ingredient sugar makes it an instant source of energy, mostly blended with a variety of flavors and colors for sensory and aesthetic appeal. Flavors such as caramel, chocolate, peppermint, butterscotch, and vanilla are the most popular among many, that comprises of more than 2000 kinds. Although synthetic flavors and colors are predominant, natural sources such as herbs are being increasingly used. Herbal (made from herbs) products have lesser effects, more therapeutic effects, and health benefits. The advantages of herbs used in candy manufacturing are safe, with good efficacy, lower side effect, compatibility with the human body, and wide cultural acceptability. Herbal candies are used as an efficient delivery system for vitamins, minerals, and numerous bioactive compounds like anthocyanin, lycopene, ascorbic acid, etc. They are a remedy of choice in case of cough, sore throat, digestive and stomach problems. The choice of herb often is influenced based on the target health problem, reduced side effects, availability, and preferences. Apart from sugar, these candies are also manufactured using sweetening agents. Sugar and sweeteners consumption is associated with various myths and prejudices owing to increased health concerns. The review is thus designed to justify various aspects of herbal candy like production process, ingredients, historical importance, and types of herbal candies, myths, facts and risks, consumer awareness towards herbal candies. The paper will also draw a roadmap for the future of herbal candy amongst today’s health-wary consumers.