Key Takeaways
- Jamu is a traditional Indonesian drink associated with immunity and longevity.
- The main ingredients in the drink are turmeric, ginger, tamarind, and lemongrass.
- The ingredients provide many health benefits, like reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting immunity.
Jamu is a traditional Indonesian herbal drink that could boost your immune system. It’s typically made from a thick mixture of turmeric, tamarind, ginger, and lemongrass, then sweetened with palm sugar or honey. The beverage may also help with digestion, nausea, and inflammation
1. It May Reduce Systemic Inflammation
Free radicals can damage cell membranes, enzymes, and DNA—driving systemic inflammation—while antioxidants and polyphenols help counteract these effects, reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall health.
All of jamu’s key ingredients deliver these benefits.
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support joint health, immune function, and brain function. Ginger also contains antioxidants and may help with inflammation and nausea.
Tamarind promotes digestion and may lower “bad” cholesterol,1 while lemongrass is “widely used in herbal medicine for its rich antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral content,” said Stephani Johnson, DCN, RDN, adjunct professor in the department of clinical and preventive nutrition sciences at Rutgers University School of Health Professions.
2. It May Improve Digestive Health
Your digestion may also improve if you start drinking jamu, since ginger can help manage nausea, bloating, and indigestion. Tamarind contains high levels of fiber that can help you have regular bowel movements.
The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties in lemongrass may also reduce constipation.
3. It Can Boost Your Immune System
Jamu may be particularly helpful for the cold season. Tamarind’s high vitamin C and polyphenol content can strengthen immune function.
“Recent research has highlighted the crucial role of the gut microbiome in overall health and immune function,” Johnson said. “The ingredients in jamu, particularly ginger and lemongrass, are associated with promoting a healthy gut microbiome, further supporting immune health.” (Very Well Health)
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Article written-By Maggie O’Neill; Medically reviewed by Suzanne Fisher, RD
O’Neill is a reporter who covers new medical research and addiction. She previously worked at SELF magazine and Health.com, and she was a 2020 fellow at the Association of Health Care Journalists
