Keora - Reconstitution

What is Keora, and where is it found?

Keora (Pandanus odoratissimus) is a flowering plant found primarily along the east coast of India, especially in the Ganjam district of South Odisha. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia.

What is the difference between the Kewra and Rampe plants?

The Kewra plant (Pandanus odoratissimus) is distinct from the Rampe plant (Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb). The former is used to extract Kewra essence, while the latter is used to flavor food, particularly rice and curries.

What is the floral bouquet of the male Keora plant like?

The male Keora plant produces a sweet, rose-like, fruity bouquet. This is the part of the plant used to extract the Kewra essence, making it highly fragrant.

How tall does the Keora plant grow?

Keora plants grow up to 18 feet tall, with long spikes that encase the creamy white flowers, which are harvested for their fragrance.

What are some culinary uses of Kewra?

Kewra essence is used to flavor sweets in sugar syrup, like petha and ras malai, and is also added to desserts like vermicelli kheer and custards. Additionally, it is used to perfume pulaos and other dishes.

What is Kewra Ruh (Oil), and how is it used?

Kewra Ruh is 100% pure oil extracted from the male Kewra flowers, requiring about 1,000 flowers to produce one ounce. It is used in Ayurveda for its stimulating properties and to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

What is Kewra Attar, and how is it made?

Kewra Attar is made by distilling Kewra flowers into sandalwood oil, resulting in a perfume with about 3% to 5% Kewra oil mixed with sandalwood. It is widely used in India for its unique fragrance and is applied on clothes and behind ears.

What is Kewra Jal (Hydrosol), and how is it produced?

Kewra Jal is the hydrosol derived from Kewra flowers, either as a primary product from low-quality flowers or as a secondary product during the production of Kewra Ruh or Attar. It contains about 0.02% of Kewra oil and is often used as a fragrance and flavoring agent.

Why is Kewra popular in Indian perfumery?

Kewra is popular in Indian perfumery due to its extraordinary tenacity and ability to blend well with tobacco notes, making it ideal for products like pan masala and gutka, as well as traditional Indian perfumes.