25 Health Benefits of Kencur: Nutrition and Consumption Tips
Kencur (aromatic ginger) has long been a choice for traditional medicine. The bioactive compounds in its rhizome provide a unique flavor while offering tangible health benefits. This article aims to review the various health benefits of kencur:
1. As an Energy Booster

The ability of the bioactive compounds in the kencur rhizome is effective in providing extra energy. Therefore, regular consumption increases the body's vitality.[1]
2. Improved Appetite

One of the benefits of consuming kencur, whether raw or in the form of traditional herbal medicine (jamu), is increasing appetite. This happens because the essential oil content provides a soothing effect on the stomach.[1]
3. Avoiding Fatigue

The essential oil in kencur is proven to be converted into energy when digested. As a result, the body feels a sensation of relaxation.[1]
4. Good for a Gassy Stomach

The carminative properties in kencur essential oil are also effective in reducing gas in the digestive tract. This helps reduce gassiness and bloating.[1]
5. Lowering Cholesterol Levels

Kencur encourages bile production, which helps manage fats effectively.[2] This can lower levels of bad cholesterol.
6. Accelerating Wound Healing

Not only that, its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help wounds heal quickly. Additionally, kencur also promotes the recovery of damaged tissue.[3]
7. Helping Treat Urinary Stones

The active compounds in kencur are capable of dissolving kidney stones present in the urinary tract. Besides treating them, its active compounds are also effective in reducing the formation of new stones.[4]
8. Natural Cough Remedy

Kencur also acts as an expectorant that supports the expulsion of mucus.[2] It is no wonder that this rhizome is a natural solution for coughs.
9. Source of Antioxidants

Flavonoids and polyphenols are two types of antioxidants found in kencur. Their presence is effective in reducing the risk of chronic diseases while simultaneously boosting the immune system.[1]
10. Relieving Gastritis

What diseases does kencur treat? Gastritis (Maag) is one of them.[5] Its anti-inflammatory properties not only calm the stomach but also balance stomach acid.
11. Cold Remedy

The anti-inflammatory properties of kencur also provide benefits in treating colds. Its warming effect relieves inflammation and soothes, helping colds subside quickly.[2]
12. Diabetes-Friendly

The active compounds in kencur have the potential to regulate blood sugar levels. It works by increasing insulin sensitivity.[6]
13. Regulating Menstrual Cycles

Research has found that kencur has the potential to make monthly cycles more regular. Furthermore, its analgesic properties are effective in reducing abdominal cramps that often occur during menstruation.[5]
14. Anti-Toxin

Polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins in kencur are effective in boosting the detoxification process. In addition to warding off harmful cells from outside, these antioxidants also support better liver function to remove toxins.[1]
15. Relieving Sprains

Simply by grating it and applying it to the painful area, the anti-inflammatory properties of kencur will relieve pain caused by sprains. The pain also heals faster due to improved blood circulation.[5]
16. Preventing 'Masuk Angin' (Common Cold-like Symptoms)

The essential oil contained in this particular empon-empon (traditional rhizome herb) acts as an analgesic and antimicrobial. This is effective in fighting various infections often mistaken for 'masuk angin'.[1]
17. Relieving Headaches

The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in this plant stop pain pathways and reduce inflammation.[2] By doing so, the intensity of headaches decreases.
18. Potential for Preventing Cancer

Ethyl p-methoxycinnamate in kencur has the potential to inhibit cancer cell growth.[6] This compound is known to have antiproliferative effects, which can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
19. Treating Bacterial Infections

Essential oils, flavonoids, and saponins make kencur inhibit the activity of various bacteria.[1] This makes the rhizome effective in treating various microbial infections.
20. Maintaining Skin Health

Kencur has the potential to prevent premature aging. Meanwhile, its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe various skin problems, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.[5]
21. Treating Diarrhea

The bacteria that cause diarrhea can be overcome by the antimicrobial and antiseptic properties of kencur (aromatic ginger).[2] Its active compounds also help calm the stomach and relieve cramping due to diarrhea.
22. Postpartum Recovery

One of the benefits of kencur for women is postpartum recovery. Not only does it reduce swelling and prevent potential postpartum infections, but kencur also supports breast milk production.[6]
23. Preventing Cavities

Kencur can prevent cavities due to its strong antibacterial properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of kencur also help soothe inflamed gums and strengthen oral tissues.[5]
24. Improving Sperm Quality

The antioxidants in kencur are effective in preventing sperm DNA damage caused by oxidative stress. Kencur also improves blood circulation to reproductive organs, thereby increasing sex hormone production.[6]
25. Fighting Free Radicals

Polyphenols, saponins, and flavonoids are some of the compounds present in kencur. These antioxidants are crucial in fighting molecules that cause cell damage.[1]
Can Kencur Be Consumed Every Day?

Kencur is safe for daily consumption. Besides in the form of traditional herbal medicine (jamu) and decoctions, you can consume it in the form of Sido Muncul Natural Herbamix5 capsules. This product offers a practical way to obtain the benefits of kencur.
In addition to being a source of energy and boosting the immune system, you can also enjoy various other benefits of kencur by taking 2 capsules a day. Let’s integrate kencur into your daily routine and experience the health benefits of kencur that you never expected before!