Empon-Empon: Types and Their Benefits for the Body
The term "empon-empon" may be less popular among the younger generation today. Yet, empon-empon are spices that have long been used by our ancestors as herbal remedies and cooking ingredients. Beyond making dishes more delicious and aromatic, their health benefits for the body are truly remarkable.
Furthermore, people often process these spices into *jamu empon-empon*, one of many traditional Javanese drinks. The types of spices used are diverse, offering various benefits, ranging from boosting stamina and immune systems to acting as medicine and aids for beauty.
Want to know what empon-empon consists of and its benefits for the body? Here is the explanation.
Types of Empon-Empon
Before discussing what they contain, you need to know the difference between empon-empon and general spices. Based on the KBBI (Indonesian Dictionary), empon-empon are spices that come in the form of rhizomes. So, while all empon-empon are spices, not all spices are empon-empon.
Some of the most popular types of empon-empon are:
1. Temulawak

First, there is *temulawak* or Java turmeric. This spice is well-known as a nutritious medicinal plant and is an essential ingredient in making *jamu*. The Javanese people, in particular, believe this plant is effective in treating many types of illnesses.
Research shows that *temulawak* indeed contains antioxidants, antimicrobials, and anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains anticancer, antitumor, antidiabetic, and hepatoprotective compounds. Its rhizome can treat liver conditions, dysentery, hemorrhoids, fevers, and more.
2. Ginger (Jahe)

One type of Javanese empon-empon is ginger, which has numerous health benefits. Ginger is rich in antioxidants and effective at warding off germs. Once in the body, ginger can even prevent the growth of *E. coli* and *Shigella* bacteria, as well as the RSV virus.
Additionally, the rhizome of this plant has thermogenic properties, which can warm the stomach and address various gastric issues. Therefore, it is no surprise that people in the past often consumed this plant when they felt bloated, nauseous, or otherwise unwell.
3. Turmeric (Kunyit)

From the outside, turmeric and *temulawak* do look similar. This makes sense as they both belong to the same genus, *Curcuma*. However, turmeric is generally smaller than *temulawak*. Nevertheless, the benefits of turmeric are just as important.
The rhizome of this plant possesses anticancer properties and can inhibit the growth of cancer and tumor cells in the body. Furthermore, it contains antioxidants and is effective in strengthening the immune system, preventing diabetes and high cholesterol, and relieving stomach cramps.
4. Kencur (Aromatic Ginger)

Another equally popular empon-empon is *kencur*. The rhizome of this plant is proven to accelerate wound healing and treat skin disorders. Additionally, it is effective at quickly eliminating the influenza virus in the body.
Furthermore, just like other rhizomes, *kencur* contains antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Your immune system will also be stronger when you consume this plant.
Benefits of Empon-Empon for the Body

From the explanation above, you may already understand what *jamu empon-empon* is for. However, for more clarity, here are some of the benefits most sought after by the public!
1. Warming the Body
Because it contains ginger, which has thermogenic properties, empon-empon is highly effective for warming the body. When the temperature drops, consuming products containing these rhizomes can keep the body warmer and prevent hypothermia.
There are several products you can try, such as *wedang*, *secang*, and *bandrek*. These three traditional Javanese and Sundanese drinks are very effective at returning body temperature to normal.
2. Maintaining Digestive Health
Beyond warming the body, empon-empon is also effective for maintaining your digestive health, thanks to the *temulawak* and turmeric it contains. By consuming products made from them, your stomach can feel calmer and more comfortable.
Moreover, these medicinal plants can preserve intestinal health because they are effective at minimizing harmful bacteria, such as *E. coli* and others.
3. Boosting Immune System
Your immune system will also improve when you regularly consume these medicinal plants. This is because they contain *kencur* and turmeric, which are excellent for immunity. Thus, you can be more resistant to various disease-causing pathogens.
Interestingly, you can consume empon-empon in various ways. As explained above, you know you can drink them by preparing *jamu*, *wedang*, *secang*, or *bandrek*. However, there is a much easier and more practical way to consume them.
The way is to drink TeJamu Empon Jahe 150ml Traditional Drink from Sido Muncul. This product is made from *temulawak*, turmeric, *kencur*, ginger, lemongrass, *secang*, pandan, cinnamon, and palm sugar, which are good for your health.
Now that you know what empon-empon is, it is time to consume it regularly to warm your body, maintain your digestive tract, and boost your immunity. Don't forget to read the usage instructions before drinking the TeJamu product to ensure the best results!