Usadha Seleguih: A Traditional Balinese Remedy for Healing Minor Wounds

Usadha Seleguih is one of Bali's traditional remedies that uses natural herbal ingredients rooted in the Lontar Usadha Taru Pramana. This lontar is a Balinese cultural heritage containing various information about herbal plants and their benefits, including turmeric, which has been used by the Hindu Balinese community for years. This remedy specifically focuses on treating minor wounds and caring for irritated or itchy skin caused by insect bites. The name "Seleguih" itself refers to ingredients that are easy to find around Balinese households, making it a practical and effective remedy for daily use.

Ingredients for Usadha Seleguih (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

Ingredients of Usadha Seleguih

Usadha Seleguih uses natural ingredients that have healing properties for wounds, reducing inflammation, and relieving itching. Here are the main ingredients of this remedy:

1. Guava Leaves
Guava leaves are known for their strong antibacterial properties. Additionally, they have anti-inflammatory effects, which are excellent for treating wounds and skin irritation.

2. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It helps reduce skin inflammation and accelerates wound healing.

3. Salt
Salt has antiseptic properties that can cleanse wounds of germs or bacteria that may cause infections.

4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil acts as a natural moisturizer that soothes dry skin and helps speed up the healing process of wounds. Moreover, it has antimicrobial properties.

Usadha Seleguih Making Process (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

How to Make Usadha Seleguih

The process of making Usadha Seleguih is very simple and can be done at home with readily available ingredients. Here are the steps to prepare this remedy:

1. Take two guava leaves and crush them with a mortar and pestle until smooth.

2. Add one piece of turmeric, finely grated, into the crushed guava leaves.

3. Add a pinch of salt to help cleanse the wound.

4. Mix this blend with a small amount of coconut oil until you achieve a suitable texture for application.

Usadha Seleguih Ready for Use (Photo Source: Personal Collection)

How to Use

This Usadha Seleguih remedy can be applied directly by spreading the mixture onto minor wounds or itchy areas of the skin caused by insect bites. Apply evenly and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the herbal ingredients to work effectively.

Benefits of Usadha Seleguih

1. Healing Minor Wounds
Guava leaves and turmeric help accelerate wound healing by fighting infections and stimulating skin cell regeneration.

2. Relieving Itching and Irritation
The natural compounds in this remedy can soothe irritated or itchy skin caused by insect bites.

3. Accelerating Skin Recovery
With coconut oil's moisturizing properties, this remedy also helps reduce inflammation and maintain skin moisture.

By preserving such traditions, Usadha Seleguih serves as a testament to the wisdom of Balinese ancestors in utilizing nature to promote health and well-being. It’s a simple, affordable, and effective remedy that anyone can prepare and use at home.