Jamu is traditional medicine in Indonesia. It is predominantly herbal
medicine made from natural materials, such as parts of plants such as roots,
bark, flowers, seeds, leaves and fruits. Materials
acquired from animals, such as honey, royal jelly, milk and eggs are also often
used.
Jamu can be found throughout Indonesia, however it is most
prevalent in Java. In many large cities jamu herbal medicine is sold on the
street by hawkers carry a refreshing drink, usually bitter but sweetened with
honey or palm sugar.
Jamu Herbal is
also produced in factories by large companies, and sold at various drug stores
in sachet packaging. Packaged dried jamu should be dissolved in hot water first
before drinking. Nowadays jamu herbal medicine is also sold in the form of tablets, caplets and
capsules. These jamu brands are united in an Indonesian Herbal and Traditional
Medicine Association. Today, jamu is a growing local herbal medicine industry worth
millions of dollars. In 2014, Jamu contributes Rp 3 trillion (US$73.29 million)
to overall sales.