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.
Traditional Malay Medicine is a holistic healing system that blends indigenous Malay practices with influences from Chinese, Indian, and other local healing traditions. Deeply rooted in Malaysia’s cultural heritage, it views health as a balance between the physical, emotional, and spiritual realms. Passed down through generations, the practice integrates a profound respect for nature and a belief in the body’s ability to heal itself with the aid of medicinal plants, spiritual practices, and lifestyle adjustments.
The techniques in Traditional Malay Medicine are diverse and range from herbal remedies and massage to energy healing and spiritual rituals. A common method is the preparation of herbal tonics crafted from various plant parts, to boost immunity, improve energy, and restore internal balance. Another popular technique is urut, a traditional massage that uses herbal oils to alleviate muscle pain, improve circulation, and aid recovery from injuries. Spiritual healing, or berubat, involves prayers, incantations, and rituals aimed at dispelling negative energies or supernatural influences believed to be affecting the patient’s health. Heat-based therapies, like bertangas (herbal steaming) and sauna mandi wap (steam bath), are also used to promote relaxation, detoxification, and circulation.
Numerous medicinal plants are central to Traditional Malay Medicine. One well-known plant is Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia), often called “Malaysian ginseng,” valued for its aphrodisiac and energy-boosting properties. Another is Misai kucing (Orthosiphon stamineus), which is used as a diuretic and for managing high blood pressure. Kunyit (turmeric, Curcuma longa), similar to Indonesian practices, is widely used for its anti-inflammatory properties. Pegaga (Centella asiatica), or Gotu Kola, is commonly consumed for mental clarity and skin health.
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Traditional Malay Medicine
