Mangestuti Agil
Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Airlangga
Indonesia is the second richest country in the world in terms of biodiversity. Naturally occurring plants have been used by Indonesians for their survival, as well as for food, drinks or medicines for generations. In addition to traditional knowledge, it has been scientifically proven through research that such plants contain secondary metabolites which have various biological activities. Rhizome of Curcuma domestica (turmeric), used as a spice in traditional dishes and an ingredient in drinks, contains curcumin with antioxidants, having anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which support its use for dysmenorrhea. Katu leaves (Sauropus androgynus) are commonly eaten raw by nursing mothers to enhance milk production. Research results support their activity for milk secretion and as a source of vitamins. Semanggi leaves are prepared with a special peanut sauce, and scientific research has proved their activity for the prevention of osteoporosis among post-menopausal women.
Traditional knowledge using medicinal plants in foods and drinks can be considered as part of the national heritage and should be backed by efforts to investigate their pharmacological properties for health promotion. It is hoped that through such efforts mankind will be able to give strong support to the use of traditional foods and drinks in the establishment of a healthy and wise society.
(Presented in the 2012 Asian Food Heritage Forum: Harmonizing Culture , Technology and Industry, 20-21 August 2012, Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok, organized by Institute of Thai Studies, Institute of Asian Studies, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University, Chinese Dietary Culture Institute, Zhejiang Gongshang University, and Ministry of Culture, Thailand)