Temu Tis (Curcuma purpurascens): Its Role in Traditional Balinese Usadha Medicine

Lontar Usadha Tiwang discusses various traditional Balinese diseases and their use in herbal medicine. One plant that is often mentioned is temu tis, which is used in various concoctions to restore the body's balance and relieve symptoms of disease.

Efficacy of Temu Tis in Traditional Medicine

The use of temu tis in the Usadha lontar reflects the Balinese ancestors' deep knowledge of herbal plants. This plant is a symbol of traditional beliefs that connect humans with nature. Its extraordinary properties not only overcome various physical ailments, but are also believed to be able to restore spiritual energy.

Temu Tis (Source: Personal Collection)

Lontar Usadha Tiwan notes several diseases that can be treated with temu tis. These diseases include symptoms ranging from body aches to energy imbalances, making it an important ingredient in traditional healing potions.

1)       Tiwang Pamali Papasanan

This disease is characterized by stabbing back pain and often interferes with daily activities. Temu tis is believed to help relieve symptoms effectively through traditional herbs.

2)       Tiwang Bebai

This condition often causes stomach cramps that feel like being pulled. Treatment using temu tis aims to provide a calming effect and smooth digestion naturally.

3)       Tiwang Sasah Bangke

Symptoms of stabbing pain that extends to the back can be treated with a herbal remedy made from temu tis, which provides a warming effect and relieves pain.

In addition to these three diseases, temu tis is also used in combination with other herbs for various other treatments, such as reducing inflammation, detoxifying the body, and recovering from illness.

One way to process and utilize temu tis in traditional Balinese medicine is through a recipe recorded in the Lontar Usadha Tiwang. One of the recipes mentioned is to treat a disease known as "Tiwang Bebai". This disease is characterized by symptoms such as stomach cramps, pain in the lower abdomen that feels like being pulled, and other discomforts.

Ingredients:

·        Kapkap (Piper betle L.) to taste

·        Candlenut (Aleurites moluccanus) to taste

·        Temu tis (Curcuma purpurascens Blume) to taste

·        Roasted Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) to taste

Medicinal Ingredients (Source: Personal Collection)

Processing Method:

• Prepare the necessary tools and materials. Then wash the materials thoroughly.
• Blend all ingredients until they form a paste.
• Stir until smooth to ensure a homogeneous mixture.

The way to use it is by spreading or applying this potion on the body part that needs treatment. This process shows how traditional medicine utilizes natural ingredients available around to overcome various health problems.

Tiwang Bebai Medicine (Source: Personal Collection)

The Uniqueness of Temu Tis in Balinese Tradition

The holistic approach applied in traditional Balinese medicine is a unique attraction. Temu tis is not only valued as an herbal plant, but also as a symbol of human connectedness with the universe. WHO states that effective traditional medicine includes integration between the physical, mental, and spiritual. Temu tis reflects this value perfectly, making Balinese medicine a model of sustainable natural health.

The use of temu tis in the Usadha lontar also shows how Balinese people maintain a balance between traditional heritage and modern needs. The process of utilizing herbs that is carried out carefully, accompanied by prayers and rituals, is a characteristic that is difficult to find elsewhere.