The name for this powder, now used for thickening dishes, is said to have come from a Red Indian word aru aru meaning 'meal of meals' because it is so easily digested. Once used to treat poisoned arrow wounds, some say its name could have come from the Indian word araruta or flour root. Today it is especially good for those who cannot tolerate wheat or corn, taking the place of the more commonly used thickener cornflour. Use less though – l teaspoon to a cup of liquid but treat it the same way. Dissolve it first in a little cold liquid before stirring into the rest of the hot dish. Bring it to the boil as you stir and add it at the end of cooking and do not overcook it as it loses effectiveness at prolonged high heat.