A Special Remedy for Epidemic Prevention? Indonesia Embraces 'Diet Therapy'

Traditional Herb Drink 'Jamu' Sales Double Amid COVID-19 Prevention Rumors
President Jokowi Also Says "I Enjoy Drinking It"

[Asia Economy Jakarta Correspondent Sujin Choi] After maintaining zero new cases of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) for a while, Indonesia saw its confirmed COVID-19 cases exceed 100 last weekend. Attention is focusing on dietary measures to prevent the spread of the epidemic.

According to local media such as the Jakarta Globe on the 17th, Budi Karya Sumadi, Indonesia's Minister of Transportation, recently tested positive for COVID-19. Minister Sumadi was regarded as the highest-ranking official among Indonesia's confirmed cases, and even President Joko Widodo had to undergo COVID-19 testing. President Joko Widodo’s test caused considerable shock among Indonesians, as it showed that even the president is not immune to the epidemic.

The local newspaper Kompas reported that sales of a mixed spice called "Empun-empun" have more than doubled rapidly over the past few weeks in traditional Indonesian markets. Empun-empun is an ingredient of "Jamu," Indonesia’s traditional herbal drink, and it is presumed that this spice might be effective in preventing the COVID-19 epidemic.

Charul Anwar Nidom, a molecular biologist at Airlangga University in Surabaya, revealed that certain spices produce substances that stabilize the body's immunity. Dr. Nidom’s team was inspired by the effectiveness of Jamu in alleviating symptoms during the previous avian influenza outbreak. Research is currently underway to determine whether Jamu helps relieve COVID-19 symptoms. Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and other spices rich in curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, are already well-known for their ability to help prevent various viral infectious diseases.

The surge in spice consumption in Indonesia has led to price increases. The price of fresh ginger rose from 30,000 rupiah per kilogram (about 2,460 won) to 50,000 rupiah (about 4,100 won). In particular, the price of "Tumulawak," a type of ginger from Java, tripled from 4,000 rupiah to 12,000 rupiah per kilogram. Turmeric rose to 100,000 rupiah, and lemongrass increased from 60,000 rupiah to 150,000 rupiah, more than doubling.

President Joko Widodo also praised Jamu. Through the government website, he stated that Jamu gives strength to fight COVID-19 and that he drinks a mixture of fresh ginger, lemongrass, turmeric, and curcuma three times a day. He added that he serves Jamu to guests at the presidential palace for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. He even broadcast on his YouTube channel that he has been drinking Jamu every morning for 18 years. Not only President Joko Widodo but also former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is known as a Jamu enthusiast within Indonesia. Regarding the craze for these effective medicinal herbs, Erlina Burhan, spokesperson for the Indonesian COVID-19 Medical Alliance, stated that traditional Indonesian herbs can act as antioxidants.

However, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced on its website that while traditional treatments used in some countries may provide psychological comfort, there is no evidence that they directly prevent or cure diseases. Regarding the spread of COVID-19, President Joko Widodo emphasized in a message to the public, "Work from home and avoid mass gatherings," adding, "The most important thing right now is social distancing." The Indonesian government has begun proactive epidemic prevention measures, including a full closure of elementary, middle, and high schools in Jakarta, social distancing guidelines, and temperature checks in public places.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.