Know the herbs

Scientific name

Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb.

Family

Zingiberaceae

Local name

Temu lawak

Description

The macroscopic physical characteristics of this organism show that it has a soft, yellow rhizome structure. The herbal properties of the dried powder of this plant appear as a brownish, aromatic powder that delivers a slightly warm and spicy taste.

Usage

For health and treatment aspects, temu lawak is used as a tonic, carminative, and anti-inflammatory agent, and is practiced to treat constipation, stomach cramps, stomach ache, worm infestation, fever, malaria, rheumatism, numbness in the feet, and gonorrhea. This plant is also used as a fever poultice to treat swelling. For other uses, it is applied as a cosmetic ingredient, a mosquito repellent, and an ingredient in hair cleansers and fragrances.