31 Remarkable Health Benefits of Temulawak You Should Know

31 Remarkable Health Benefits of Temulawak You Should Know

Temulawak, an Indonesian herbal plant, is renowned for its health benefits. With its distinct roots and rhizomes (underground stems), Temulawak has long been used for medicinal purposes. The plant thrives in regions with altitudes ranging from 5 to 750 meters above sea level.

As a powerful herbal remedy, Temulawak offers numerous health advantages. However, it’s important to distinguish it from similar-looking herbs like ginger and turmeric. Let’s explore the remarkable benefits that Temulawak provides.

Health Benefits of Temulawak

Temulawak contains several active compounds, including curcumin, curcuminoid, p-toluilmethylcarbinol, sesquiterpene d-camper, essential oils, and various minerals such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, iron, manganese, and cadmium. These compounds contribute to the numerous health benefits of Temulawak, particularly in supporting the human body.

  1. Supports Liver Function
    Temulawak is beneficial for maintaining liver health. It stimulates bile production in the liver and promotes the emptying of the gallbladder. Clinical trials have shown that curcumin in Temulawak can help lower levels of SGOT and SGPT enzymes, which are markers of liver function.
  2. Eases Joint Inflammation
    The curcumin in Temulawak is as effective as 100 mg of phenylbutazone in reducing arthritis symptoms and pain. It works by inhibiting the migration of leukocyte cells to inflamed areas and blocking the formation and transportation of inflammatory mediators, resulting in significant improvements for arthritis patients. In traditional Indian medicine, herbs like Temulawak have been used for centuries to treat and prevent inflammation, including arthritis. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Temulawak extract, when taken alongside ibuprofen, effectively reduced arthritis pain without adverse side effects.
  3. Improves Digestion
    Temulawak stimulates bile production, aiding digestion and alleviating various digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and dyspepsia. A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that patients taking turmeric supplements had a lower relapse rate of digestive disorders compared to those taking a placebo.
  4. Lowers Cholesterol
    The curcuminoid fraction in Temulawak helps lower cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. This has a positive effect on heart health and the cardiovascular system, making Temulawak a valuable addition to a cholesterol-lowering diet.
  5. Fights Cancer
    Research published in The Prostate journal highlighted that curcumin can significantly inhibit the growth of prostate cancer and may prevent the development of other hormone-related cancers. While further studies on humans are needed, the potential cancer-preventive properties of Temulawak are promising. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, herbal plants like Temulawak may help stop the growth of blood vessels that supply cancerous tumors, possibly due to their antioxidant activity that protects cells from damage.
  6. Aids in Hepatitis Recovery
    To assist in the treatment of hepatitis, prepare two fingers of Temulawak, clean, slice, and boil in half a liter of water with a small amount of palm sugar until the water reduces by half. Drink this remedy twice a day.
  7. Relieves Asthma Symptoms
    Temulawak can alleviate asthma symptoms. Boil half a rhizome of Temulawak in five glasses of water with some palm sugar until the water reduces by half. Drink this solution three times daily.
  8. Treats Kidney Pain
    Temulawak may help alleviate symptoms of kidney stones. Boil Temulawak along with cat’s whiskers and meniran leaves in four cups of water until the liquid reduces by half. Drink this concoction three times a day.
  9. Heals Boils
    To treat boils, boil Temulawak in two glasses of water with a little palm sugar and a rhizome of tamarind. Once cooled, strain the liquid and drink it in one go.
  10. Reduces Nausea, Especially Morning Sickness
    Temulawak is also effective in alleviating morning sickness and other types of nausea.
  11. Alleviates Muscle Fatigue
    Temulawak helps reduce muscle fatigue, particularly for those who engage in intense exercise.

In addition to these 11 key benefits, Temulawak also plays a role in other health areas, such as:

  • Acting as an antioxidant
  • Preventing “dirty blood”
  • Relieving menstrual discomfort
  • Treating acne and blackheads
  • Cleansing the face
  • Enhancing beauty
  • Improving mood
  • Increasing appetite
  • Preventing insomnia

Side Effects of Temulawak

Temulawak is generally safe for short-term use, but excessive or long-term consumption may cause stomach irritation and nausea. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using Temulawak, as its effects during pregnancy and lactation are not well studied.

The appropriate dosage of Temulawak depends on factors like age, health status, and other conditions. Always follow product label directions and consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider before using Temulawak as a medicinal herb.

These are the remarkable health benefits of Temulawak. If you found this information helpful, please share it with others. Thank you!