Baru di Bali

Blessed with Earthly riches scattered within around 140 million hectares of rainforest, Indonesia’s cultural, social and economical lives are deeply rooted in nature. Traditional herbal medicines derived from leaves, fruits, roots, seeds, flowers or tree barks have been widely used since ancient times. At present, one could easily buy these herbs in the modernly packed forms of jamu (powder, pills, capsules, drinking liquid and ointments). Although originated from Java, in the course of time jamu has spread to not only the neighboring Bali, but also many other islands. Below are ten herbs that function as natural cures. These herbs are widely available at many traditional markets around the island.

1. Temu Lawak (wild ginger)

   One of the latest researches proved that wild ginger is able to put out tooth plague bacteria that can trigger various diseases: heart disease, stroke, and lung disorder. Another research concluded that wild ginger is effective to break open the defense fortress of plasmodium, the cause of malaria that has become immune against malaria drugs.

2. Kunyit (tumeric)

   Turmeric is thought to have many medicinal properties used as a readily available antiseptic for cuts, burns and bruises. It is also used as an antibacterial agent. It is taken as a dietary supplement, which supposedly helps with stomach problems and other ailments. Turmeric is currently used in the formulation of some sunscreens. Turmeric paste is also used by women to keep them free of superfluous hair. Aside from that, the paste is also believed to give glow to the skin and keeps some harmful bacteria away from the body.

3. Lengkuas (ginger plant)

   Three to four leaves of lengkuas plant taken on an empty stomach is an effective cure for congestion, cough and cold. Lengkuas has also been historically used to treat inflammation, which several scientific studies support, though one arthritis trial showed lengkuas to be no better than a placebo for treatment of osteoarthritis. Research on rats suggests that lengkuas may be useful for treating diabetes.

4. Kencur (greater galingale)

   Medicinally kencur is used as a traditional treatment for coughs and colds and is considered a mind hallucinogen. It is also said to be good for flatulence but only when rubbed on your belly. Kencur is also widely used as an ingredient in traditional Indonesian dishes such as karedok or gado-gado (both are vegetable salad with peanut sauce).

5. Jeruk Nipis (calamondin orange)

   Women generally use this fruit for shampooing the hair, or the fruit juice applied to the scalp after shampooing. It eliminates itching and promotes hair growth. Rubbing calamondin juice on insect bites can eliminate the itching and irritation. It is taken orally as a cough remedy. Slightly diluted and drunk warm, it serves as a laxative. The distilled oil of the leaves serves as a carminative with more potency than peppermint oil.

6. Kayu Manis (cinnamon)

   Cinnamon has traditionally been used to treat toothache and fight bad breath and its regular use is believed to avoid common cold and aid digestion.

7. Melati (jasmine)

   Jasmine flowers are known to 'cool'the blood and have a strong antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-tumor properties. Because they cool the blood they help with reducing a fever or cooling an overheated person (from the sun). Jasmine has astringent properties which aids in treating inflamed eyes and skin, and as a gargle to relieve sore throats and mouth ulcers. Jasmine is used in aromatherapy to calm the emotions, and as an aphrodisiac. It is a valuable remedy in cases of depression because it produces a feeling of confidence, optimism and euphoria. It revitalizes and restores the balance of energy.

8. Sambang Darah (sambang blood)

   Generally, sambang blood is used to exterminate parasites, eliminate severe itching on skin and to stop bleeding.

9. Ceplukan

   Ceplukan is scrub vegetation rich in vitamin C and sugar. Ceplukan is used as an antioxidant, treatment following stroke and to reduce neurological deficits.

10. Lempuyang

    Lempuyang is widely cultivated and eaten, or made into a tea for indigestion as well as increased circulation of the blood and an increased sense of well-being. Lempuyang has also been found to ease a stomachache, toothache or a cavity.