The Role of Candlenut as a Medicinal Ingredient in the Lontar Usadha Dalem

Traditional medicine has become an inseparable part of Indonesia's cultural heritage, particularly in Bali, which is renowned for its wealth of holistic healing traditions. One of the traditional sources of knowledge with significant historical and medical value is the Lontar Usadha Dalem, an ancient manuscript written on palm leaves and passed down through generations. This lontar contains not only various traditional medicinal recipes but also includes the philosophy of Balinese medicine, which emphasizes the balance between physical, mental, and spiritual elements.

Within the Lontar Usadha Dalem, there are hundreds of herbal remedies that utilize Bali's rich biodiversity. One recipe that remains relevant today is the combination of candlenut (Aleurites moluccanus) and dap dap leaves (Sesbania grandiflora) for wound treatment. Candlenut, rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, works synergistically with dap dap leaves, which contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds. The preparation of this remedy reflects the ancestral wisdom of Balinese people in crafting natural treatments—both ingredients are ground into a paste and then applied directly to the affected area.

Candlenut (Source : Private Collection)

Candlenut (Aleurites moluccanus) has long been known as a kitchen ingredient that enhances the savory taste of Indonesian dishes. However, in traditional medicine, especially as recorded in the Lontar Usadha Dalem, candlenut has therapeutic values far beyond its culinary function. The efficacy of candlenut as a traditional medicine lies in the complexity of its active compounds. Candlenut seeds are rich in linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and accelerating wound healing. Additionally, its flavonoid content acts as a potent antioxidant that protects skin cells from oxidative damage, while its vitamin E contributes to skin elasticity and regeneration.

In the context of wound healing, candlenut demonstrates a variety of complex healing mechanisms. Its anti-inflammatory properties work at the cellular level to suppress inflammatory mediators, effectively reducing swelling, redness, and pain in the affected area. The natural oil in candlenut serves as a natural moisturizer, creating an optimal environment for wound healing. The lipid molecules in candlenut oil form a protective barrier that helps maintain skin moisture while facilitating the regeneration of new skin cells.

Dap-Dap Leaf (Source : Private Collection)

Dap dap leaves (Sesbania grandiflora), commonly known as turi leaves, also possess remarkable properties in traditional medicine. In the Lontar Usadha Dalem, these leaves are mentioned as an effective herbal ingredient for treating wounds and reducing inflammation. Bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids make dap dap leaves a natural antiseptic that protects wounds from infection. Additionally, the tannins in the leaves help accelerate blood clotting, quickly stopping bleeding. Furthermore, dap dap leaves also have analgesic effects that reduce pain in wounds and a cooling effect that soothes irritation or minor injuries. These combined benefits make dap dap leaves a common ingredient in traditional Balinese medicine recipes.

The recipes in the Lontar Usadha Dalem are typically easy to follow, with ingredients readily available around the home. Below are the steps to prepare the candlenut and dap dap leaf remedy:

Usadha Ingridient (Source : Private Collection)

Preparation Method:

1. Prepare the ingredients: 3–5 fresh candlenut seeds and a handful of fresh dap dap leaves.

2. Wash the dap dap leaves and candlenuts thoroughly to remove dirt.

3. Grind the ingredients until they form a fine paste. Mix with a little water to make it easier to apply to the affected area.

4. The candlenut and dap dap leaf remedy is now ready to use.

Ready To Use Usadha (Source : Private Collection)

The Lontar Usadha Dalem not only teaches how to cure illnesses but also guides humanity on how to live in harmony with nature. Every remedy written in it reflects the philosophy that nature provides everything humans need, as long as humans take care of it well. Using ingredients like candlenut and dap dap leaves is not only about physical health but also about maintaining spiritual balance. The candlenut and dap dap leaf remedy, as described in the Lontar Usadha Dalem, is a testament to the richness of Balinese traditional medicine. With benefits that include wound healing, inflammation reduction, and infection prevention, this remedy is a highly valuable natural treatment option. Additionally, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with nature. As future generations, we have a responsibility to preserve this cultural heritage. By learning and practicing traditional recipes like those found in the Lontar Usadha Dalem, we not only maintain health but also honor the local wisdom that has stood the test of time.