JUARA Skincare
JUARA Skincare

BUSTLE: Can An Ancient Indonesian Wellness Practice Heal My City-Worn Soul?

Noelia Bravo -

 

"Jamu — a word that describes both the ancient Indonesian tradition that frames wellness through the lens of intention and joy, as well as the herbal drinks used in this practice to t reat different ailments. Popular jamu drinks include beras kencur — made of rice, aromatic ginger, tamarind, and palm sugar to lower inflammation and boost vitality — and kunir asem, made of ground turmeric and tamarind for overall health, gut maintenance, and even period cramps. “Jamu utilizes plants and natural ingredients to improve one's physical and mental health, prepared and served (or used yourself) to feel well and good,” says Murdaya. “As a beauty tradition, Jamu beauty rituals are all about self-care, looking good as a part of feeling good, and similarly, using local plants in beauty products.” (Her brand Juara, available stateside, uses common jamu ingredients like lemongrass, candlenut, and ginger in its soothing serums and body scrubs.)"

Read the full article here