Cem-Ceman Oil in Lontar Taru Pramana: Traditional Care for Healthy and Shiny Hair

Cem-ceman oil is one of the traditional beauty care heritage of Bali that has been used for generations. This herbal concoction is recorded in the Lontar Taru Pramana, an ancient manuscript that records the benefits of plants for health and beauty. Cem-ceman oil not only provides moisture and shine to the hair, but also has benefits for maintaining scalp health, strengthening hair roots, and preventing hair loss. This article will discuss the benefits, method of preparation, and use of cem-ceman oil based on traditional records in the lontar.

Lontar Taru Pramana is one of the herbal encyclopedias in Balinese tradition that records various types of plants and their uses. In this lontar, cem-ceman oil is mentioned as a concoction that uses coconut oil as a base, mixed with natural ingredients such as mangkokan leaves (Nothopanax scutellarium), kenanga flowers (Cananga odorata), and jasmine flowers (Jasminum sambac). This concoction is believed to beautify the hair and maintain scalp health. The combination of these ingredients is not only intended to beautify the hair, but also to maintain overall scalp health. Cem-ceman oil reflects the local wisdom of the Balinese people, which combines herbal ingredients with spiritual tradition to create holistic and in-depth care.

Cem-ceman Oil (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Cem-ceman oil has various benefits that have been proven through tradition. The mangkokan leaves used in this concoction are known to stimulate hair growth and strengthen hair roots, making the hair thicker and healthier. Coconut oil as a base ingredient provides natural moisture to the hair, making it look more shiny and not easily dry. In addition, the combination of herbal ingredients such as jasmine and kenanga flowers not only helps to overcome hair loss by nourishing the scalp, but also provides a calming aroma and relaxation that adds to the care experience. The aromatherapy properties of these two flowers make hair care with cem-ceman oil feel more relaxing and refreshing.

Making cem-ceman oil is a process that is rich in traditional value and local wisdom, combining natural ingredients with simple techniques that have been passed down through generations. Here are the steps to make cem-ceman oil based on traditional recipes:

Ingredients:

1. 250 ml of pure coconut oil.

2. 10 mangkokan leaves (washed clean).

3. A handful of jasmine flowers (20-30 flowers).

4. 5-10 kenanga flowers.

5. Optional: 1 pandan leaf for additional aroma.

Steps:

1. Preparation of Ingredients

Make sure all ingredients are washed clean to remove dirt. Tear the mangkokan leaves into small pieces to maximize the extraction of active ingredients. Jasmine flowers, kenanga flowers, and pandan leaves should also be fresh and clean.

Clean Ingredients (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

2. Preparing the Heating Process

Put the mangkokan leaves, jasmine flowers, kenanga flowers, and pandan leaves into a heat-resistant container. Make sure all ingredients are arranged neatly so that the extraction is even during the process.

Preparation for Heating Process (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

3. Mixing Ingredients

Pour pure coconut oil into the container containing the herbal ingredients until all ingredients are fully submerged. Make sure the oil covers all the ingredients to ensure maximum infusion.

Mixing Ingredients (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

4. Heating Process

Steam the container by heating it over a pot of boiling water for 20 minutes. This steaming process ensures that the heat is evenly distributed without damaging the active ingredients of the herbal ingredients.

Heating Process (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

5. Cooling the Mixture

After steaming, remove the container and let the oil mixture cool to room temperature. This process helps to complete the extraction of the remaining active ingredients from the herbal ingredients.

Cooling Process (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

6. Straining

 Strain the oil using a clean cloth or fine sieve to separate the herbal ingredients. Make sure only the clear oil remains.

Filtering Process (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

7. Storage

Store the oil in a clean and dry bottle. Place it in a cool and dark place to maintain its quality and potency. Well-stored cem-ceman oil can last up to 6 months.

Storage Method (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Additional Tips:

1. Use pure coconut oil (virgin coconut oil) for the best results, as it has higher nutritional content.

2. If you want a stronger aroma, add jasmine or kenanga flowers during the second infusion process before straining.

3. Make sure the equipment used is clean to prevent contamination.

Texture of Cem-ceman Oil (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Cem-ceman oil has various uses that can be adapted to your needs. In addition to providing deep hair care, this oil can also be used for relaxation. Here are the ways to use it:

1. For Hair Care

To get the maximum results, cem-ceman oil can be applied with a simple yet effective method. Start by applying the oil evenly to the scalp while gently massaging for 5-10 minutes to increase blood circulation in the area. After that, let the oil absorb for 2-3 hours or even overnight to ensure that the nutrients from the oil are fully absorbed by the hair roots. Finally, rinse the hair with herbal or natural shampoo to maintain optimal hair moisture and health. This process not only strengthens the hair roots but also provides a natural shine.

2. As a Hair Mask

To get additional benefits, use cem-ceman oil as a weekly hair mask. Apply it evenly from the roots to the ends of the hair, making sure all parts of the hair are covered. After that, wrap the hair with a warm towel for 20-30 minutes. The heat from the towel helps to open the hair pores, so that the absorption of nutrients from the oil becomes more maximal. After finishing, rinse the hair with warm water to remove any remaining oil. If necessary, use a natural conditioner to provide additional moisture to the hair.

3. For Relaxation

Warm the cem-ceman oil slightly before use. Massage the warm oil into the scalp, neck, or other parts of the body to provide a relaxing effect. The warm oil helps to reduce tension and provides a sense of comfort.

4. As Aroma Therapy

The aroma of jasmine and kenanga flowers in cem-ceman oil can provide a calming effect. Apply a small amount of oil to the wrists or behind the ears to enjoy the aroma throughout the day.

Packaging of Cem-ceman Oil (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

In the midst of the popularity of modern hair care products, cem-ceman oil remains relevant as a natural and environmentally friendly option. Its use of herbal ingredients without chemicals makes it a safe alternative for various hair types. Cem-ceman oil has great potential to be developed as a product of Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (UMKM) because of its relatively simple production process and easily available ingredients. This effort not only helps to preserve traditional Balinese culture but also provides income opportunities for local communities. Cem-ceman oil can be packaged attractively and marketed as a natural beauty product that is environmentally friendly, both in local and international markets. Given the global trend towards herbal and natural-based products is increasing, this product has great potential for export. Cem-ceman oil is a symbol of natural beauty in Balinese tradition that combines physical and spiritual benefits through its aroma and soothing production process. As part of the cultural heritage recorded in the Lontar Taru Pramana, this oil presents local wisdom that is rich in value and history. Using cem-ceman oil not only helps to maintain hair health but also strengthens Balinese cultural identity. By re-utilizing this traditional recipe, we not only care for ourselves naturally but also help to preserve the invaluable cultural heritage.