Post Series: Global Traditional Medicine Systems
In order to spread awareness about the rich living herbal traditions from around the world, this post series is intended to introduce some of the characteristics of the herbal or traditional medicine systems to which plants belong.
Jamu, which is Indonesian Traditional Medicine, is a centuries-old practice rooted in the archipelago’s rich biodiversity and cultural diversity. Combining indigenous knowledge and influences from Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Arabic medicine, Jamu emphasizes holistic healing, focusing on balancing the body, mind, and spirit. Traditional healers, or dukun, play a key role, passing down medicinal knowledge through generations and using locally available plants, minerals, and animal products to treat ailments and promote wellness. The practices of Jamu is recorded in several classic books, including Serat Centhini, Serat Primbon Reracikan Jampi Jawi, and Serat Kawruh.
The techniques used in Jamu vary widely, from herbal concoctions and tonics to massage therapies and spiritual healing. The preparation and consumption of Jamu drinks is perhaps the most well-known, involving plant extracts, roots, spices, and flowers blended into tonics for daily consumption. Another common practice, pijat (traditional massage), often includes herbal oils to alleviate pain and improve circulation. Ritual healing, called pengobatan or ritual penyembuhan, incorporates prayer, incense burning, and offerings, seeking spiritual alignment and harmony, especially for ailments considered to have supernatural origins.
Thousands of plants have been recorded in the practice of Jamu. For example, Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) is often combined with Turmeric (Curcuma longa), to create Jamu kunyit asam, a refreshing drink said to purify blood and reduce menstrual pain. The tropical plant Kencur (Kaempferia galanga), a member of the ginger family, is for colds and to boost energy. Temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza) is used for supporting digestion, liver support and immunity. Knuci Pepet is used for reproductive and women’s health.
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Jamu (Indonesian Traditional Medicine)
