kithul
Kithul refers to the sap collected from the inflorescence of the kithul palm, scientifically known as Caryota urens. This palm is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia, with a significant presence in Sri Lanka where it holds cultural and economic importance. The process of kithul tapping involves carefully preparing the unopened flower spathes, which then yield a sweet, watery sap. This sap is collected multiple times a day by skilled tappers who climb the tall palm trees.
The collected sap can be consumed fresh as a natural, unrefined sweetener. However, it is more commonly