List of contents:
- Indonesian Herbal Medicine Culture
- Top 5 Indonesian Herbs for Diabetes
- Sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata): The King of Bitters
- Brotowali (Tinospora crispa): The Bitter Vine
- Salam (Syzygium polyanthum): Indonesian Bay Leaf
- Safety Considerations and Precautions
- Scientific Research Supporting Indonesian Herbs for Diabetes
- Practical Guide to Using Indonesian Herbs for Diabetes
- Conclusion: Balancing Tradition and Modern Medicine
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Smart Monitoring for Diabetes 2 Control
- Discover the Top 10 Herbs for Diabetes Management
- The Best Indonesian Wholesale Suppliers in Asia
Indonesian Herbal Medicine Culture
Indonesia’s approach to herbal medicine, known locally as jamu, represents more than just remedies—it embodies a holistic philosophy of health that has been passed down through generations. Jamu combines indigenous wisdom with influences from Chinese, Indian, and Arabic healing traditions, creating a unique therapeutic system deeply rooted in Indonesian culture.
Families often maintain their own jamu recipes, with knowledge transferred from grandparents to children. These traditional formulations typically combine multiple herbs to create synergistic effects that address not just symptoms but underlying imbalances. For diabetes management, bitter-tasting herbs (known as “pahitan”) are particularly valued for their blood sugar-regulating properties.
Jamu is recognized by UNESCO as part of Indonesia’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting its significance beyond mere medicine—it represents a living tradition that connects Indonesians to their cultural roots while providing practical health benefits.
Today, Indonesia’s government is working to integrate traditional herbal knowledge with modern scientific research through programs like “Saintifikasi Jamu” (Scientific Verification of Jamu), which aims to validate traditional remedies through clinical studies. This blend of ancestral wisdom and contemporary science offers promising approaches for diabetes management.
Top 5 Indonesian Herbs for Diabetes
Indonesia’s rich biodiversity has yielded several plants with promising anti-diabetic properties. These herbs have been used in traditional medicine for centuries and are now being studied for their potential to help manage blood glucose levels. Here are five of the most widely used Indonesian herbs for diabetes management:
Sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata)
Known as the “King of Bitters” for its intensely bitter taste, Sambiloto has been a cornerstone of traditional diabetes treatment across Southeast Asia. The plant contains andrographolide, a compound that has shown promising effects on glucose metabolism.
Brotowali (Tinospora crispa)
This climbing vine with distinctive warty stems has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including diabetes. Its bitter stems contain compounds that may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.
Salam (Syzygium polyanthum)
Indonesian bay leaves, known locally as Salam, are commonly used in cooking but also serve important medicinal purposes. These aromatic leaves contain essential oils and compounds that may help regulate blood glucose levels.
Kayu Manis (Cinnamomum burmannii)
Indonesian cinnamon differs from the Ceylon variety and contains unique compounds that may help improve insulin sensitivity. This aromatic bark has been used in traditional medicine throughout Southeast Asia for its blood sugar-regulating properties.
Temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza)
This relative of turmeric, native to Indonesia, contains curcuminoids and essential oils that may help reduce inflammation associated with diabetes. The rhizome has been traditionally used to support liver function and improve metabolic health.
Jamu Pahitan (Polyherbal Formula)
Rather than single herbs, many Indonesians rely on traditional polyherbal formulations called “Jamu pahitan” that combine several bitter herbs. These formulations typically include Sambiloto, Brotowali, and other plants to create synergistic effects for blood sugar management.
Sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata): The King of Bitters
Traditional Use
Sambiloto has earned its nickname “King of Bitters” due to its intensely bitter taste—a characteristic traditionally associated with blood-purifying and glucose-regulating properties in Indonesian medicine. For centuries, it has been used to treat high blood sugar, infections, and liver problems.
In traditional practice, the entire plant—leaves, stems, and roots—is utilized, though the leaves contain the highest concentration of active compounds. Herbalists often recommend it as part of a daily regimen for those with diabetes or pre-diabetic conditions.
Scientific Evidence
Modern research has identified andrographolide as the primary bioactive compound in Sambiloto. Studies suggest it may work through multiple mechanisms:
- Stimulating glucose uptake in muscle cells, similar to how insulin works
- Improving insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells
- Reducing inflammation associated with diabetes
- Protecting pancreatic cells from damage
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Sambiloto extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic rat models. Human clinical trials, though limited, have shown promising results when Sambiloto is used as a complementary treatment alongside conventional medication.
How to Use
“The bitterness is the medicine. In our tradition, we say that the more bitter the herb, the more powerful it is for controlling blood sugar.”
Sambiloto can be consumed in several forms:
- Tea: Steep 1-2 grams of dried leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes. The extreme bitterness can be moderated by adding a small amount of honey or mixing with other herbs.
- Capsules: Standardized extracts (typically containing 10-30% andrographolide) are available in 300-500mg capsules.
- Tincture: 20-40 drops diluted in water, taken 2-3 times daily.
- Jamu mixture: Often combined with other herbs like Brotowali and Temulawak in traditional preparations.
Caution: Sambiloto may interact with blood-thinning medications and immunosuppressants. It should be avoided during pregnancy and by those with autoimmune conditions. Always start with a low dose to test tolerance for its extreme bitterness.
Brotowali (Tinospora crispa): The Bitter Vine
Traditional Use
Brotowali is a climbing vine with distinctive warty stems that has been used in Indonesian folk medicine for generations. Traditional healers value it for treating diabetes, reducing fever, and cleansing the blood. The stems are the primary part used medicinally.
In rural Indonesian communities, people with diabetes often consume a daily decoction of Brotowali stems to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It’s considered one of the most potent bitter herbs in the traditional pharmacopeia.
“Brotowali has been our family’s remedy for three generations. My grandfather used it daily after being diagnosed with sugar disease [diabetes], and he lived to be 92.”
Scientific Evidence
Research has identified several compounds in Brotowali that may contribute to its anti-diabetic effects, including borapetol B, which has shown promising results in laboratory studies. Scientific investigations suggest Brotowali may:
- Stimulate insulin release from pancreatic cells
- Improve insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues
- Inhibit alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates
- Provide antioxidant protection against diabetes-related oxidative stress
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated that Brotowali extract significantly reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. Human clinical trials, though limited, have shown promising results for glycemic control.
How to Use
Brotowali is typically prepared in the following ways:
- Decoction: Boil 10-15 grams of dried stems in 3 cups of water until reduced to 1 cup. Drink 1/3 cup three times daily.
- Tincture: 1-2 ml taken 2-3 times daily, diluted in water.
- Capsules: Standardized extracts available in 500mg capsules.
- Jamu mixture: Often combined with other bitter herbs like Sambiloto in traditional formulations.
Caution: Brotowali may cause hypoglycemia when used with diabetes medications. It should be avoided during pregnancy and by those with liver conditions. Start with lower doses to assess tolerance.
Salam (Syzygium polyanthum): Indonesian Bay Leaf
Traditional Use
Salam leaves are a staple in Indonesian kitchens, adding flavor to many traditional dishes. Beyond culinary applications, these aromatic leaves have been used medicinally for centuries to treat diabetes, high cholesterol, and digestive disorders.
In traditional practice, the leaves are either consumed as tea or added to daily meals. Many Indonesian families maintain Salam trees in their gardens for both cooking and medicinal purposes, making it one of the most accessible herbal remedies.
Scientific Evidence
Research has identified several compounds in Salam leaves that may contribute to their anti-diabetic effects, including essential oils, tannins, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Studies suggest Salam leaves may:
- Inhibit alpha-glucosidase, slowing carbohydrate absorption
- Improve insulin sensitivity in muscle and fat tissues
- Protect pancreatic beta cells from oxidative damage
- Reduce formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs)
A 2018 study published in the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research found that Salam leaf extract significantly decreased blood glucose levels in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The researchers noted that the extract’s effect was comparable to that of glibenclamide, a common diabetes medication.
How to Use
Salam leaves can be incorporated into your routine in several ways:
- Tea: Steep 3-5 dried leaves in hot water for 15 minutes. Drink 2-3 cups daily.
- Culinary: Add fresh or dried leaves to soups, stews, and rice dishes as a flavor enhancer with health benefits.
- Powder: Dried and ground leaves can be encapsulated or added to smoothies (1/2 teaspoon per serving).
- Jamu mixture: Often combined with other herbs in traditional formulations.
“What makes Salam special is its dual role as both medicine and food. We don’t think of it as taking medicine—it’s just part of our daily meals that happens to keep our blood sugar stable.”
Practical Tip: For maximum benefit, combine culinary use of Salam in meals with a daily cup of Salam tea. The leaves can be reused for 2-3 infusions before discarding.
Safety Considerations and Precautions
While Indonesian herbs offer promising benefits for diabetes management, they should be approached with appropriate caution and knowledge. Here are important safety considerations to keep in mind:
Potential Interactions
Herbal remedies can interact with conventional medications, sometimes enhancing or reducing their effects:
- Diabetes medications: Many Indonesian herbs may enhance the blood-glucose-lowering effects of conventional diabetes drugs, potentially causing hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar).
- Blood thinners: Herbs like Sambiloto may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with anticoagulant medications.
- Immunosuppressants: Some herbs can stimulate immune function, potentially counteracting immunosuppressive drugs.
Quality and Sourcing
The efficacy and safety of herbal remedies depend significantly on their quality:
- Source herbs from reputable suppliers who test for contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides.
- Look for standardized extracts when possible, which contain consistent amounts of active compounds.
- Be wary of products that make exaggerated claims or promise “miracle cures.”
- Check for proper identification of plant species, as misidentification can lead to unintended effects.
Special Populations
Certain groups should exercise extra caution with herbal remedies:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Most traditional Indonesian herbs for diabetes have not been adequately tested for safety during pregnancy or lactation.
- Children: Dosages and safety profiles for children differ from adults.
- Elderly individuals: May be more sensitive to both beneficial and adverse effects.
- People with liver or kidney disease: May have difficulty metabolizing or eliminating herbal compounds.
Important: Never discontinue prescribed medications in favor of herbal remedies without consulting your healthcare provider. The most effective approach is often integrative—combining conventional treatment with carefully selected complementary therapies under professional guidance.
Monitoring and Adjustment
When incorporating Indonesian herbs into your diabetes management plan:
- Monitor blood glucose levels more frequently to observe effects.
- Start with low doses and gradually increase as tolerated.
- Keep a journal of effects, both positive and negative.
- Be prepared to adjust dosages of both herbs and conventional medications with professional guidance.
Scientific Research Supporting Indonesian Herbs for Diabetes
The traditional use of Indonesian herbs for diabetes is increasingly supported by scientific research, though more comprehensive clinical studies are still needed. Here’s an overview of the current state of research:
| Herb | Key Compounds | Research Findings | Evidence Strength |
| Sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata) | Andrographolide, Neoandrographolide | Stimulates glucose uptake in muscle cells; improves insulin secretion; reduces inflammation | Moderate – Multiple animal studies and limited human trials |
| Brotowali (Tinospora crispa) | Borapetol B, Tinosporaside | Enhances insulin secretion; improves insulin sensitivity; antioxidant effects | Moderate – Animal studies and small human trials |
| Salam (Syzygium polyanthum) | Essential oils, Tannins, Flavonoids | Inhibits alpha-glucosidase; improves insulin sensitivity; protects beta cells | Limited – Primarily animal studies |
| Kayu Manis (Cinnamomum burmannii) | Cinnamaldehyde, Proanthocyanidins | Improves insulin sensitivity; mimics insulin action; reduces inflammation | Moderate – Multiple animal and human studies |
| Temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza) | Curcuminoids, Xanthorrhizol | Anti-inflammatory; hepatoprotective; improves metabolic parameters | Limited – Primarily animal studies |
| Jamu Pahitan (Polyherbal) | Various (depends on formulation) | Stimulates glucose uptake and insulin secretion; synergistic effects | Emerging – Recent studies on standardized formulations |
Recent Research Highlights
Jamu Pahitan Study (2023)
A study published in Heliyon journal found that standardized Jamu pahitan formulation stimulated glucose uptake in muscle cells and improved insulin secretion in pancreatic cells. The water extracts showed a safer profile while still maintaining considerable anti-diabetic activities.
Clinical Trial of AHHF (2021)
A randomized clinical trial published in the Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research demonstrated that Indonesian Anti-Hyperglycemic Herbal Formula (AHHF) significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels in diabetic patients, with effects comparable to metformin after six weeks of treatment.
Sambiloto Mechanism (2019)
Research published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition revealed that andrographolide from Sambiloto works through multiple mechanisms, including reorganizing hyperglycemia and improving antioxidant profiles in diabetic models, suggesting potential for comprehensive diabetes management.
Research Gap: While laboratory and animal studies show promising results, more large-scale, well-designed human clinical trials are needed to establish optimal dosages, long-term safety, and efficacy of Indonesian herbs for diabetes management in diverse populations.
Practical Guide to Using Indonesian Herbs for Diabetes
Integrating with Conventional Treatment
For optimal results, consider these approaches to combining traditional Indonesian herbs with modern diabetes management:
- Complementary use: Use herbs as a complement to, not replacement for, prescribed medications.
- Informed integration: Share your interest in herbal remedies with your healthcare provider to create an integrated plan.
- Gradual introduction: Add one herb at a time to monitor individual effects and tolerance.
- Regular monitoring: Check blood glucose levels more frequently when starting any herbal remedy.
Preparation Methods
Traditional Indonesian herbs can be prepared in various ways:
- Infusion: For leaves and flowers, steep in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
- Decoction: For stems, roots, and barks, simmer in water for 15-30 minutes.
- Jamu: Complex formulations often involving multiple herbs boiled together, sometimes with honey or tamarind to improve palatability.
- Modern forms: Standardized extracts in capsules, tablets, or tinctures for convenience and consistent dosing.
Daily Routine Example
Here’s a sample daily routine incorporating Indonesian herbs for diabetes management:
- Morning: Sambiloto tea (1g dried herb) or 1 capsule standardized extract with breakfast
- Lunch: Meal prepared with Salam leaves
- Afternoon: Temulawak tea or small piece of fresh rhizome
- Evening: Brotowali decoction (5g dried stems) or 1 capsule standardized extract
Taste Tip: Many Indonesian herbs for diabetes are quite bitter. Traditional wisdom suggests not masking this bitterness completely, as it’s considered part of the medicine. However, adding a small amount of honey, lemon, or mixing with more palatable herbs like lemongrass can make them more acceptable without significantly reducing benefits.
Finding Quality Products
When purchasing Indonesian herbs or products:
Local Sources
In ASEAN countries, look for traditional markets (pasar) or specialized jamu shops. Establish relationships with knowledgeable vendors who can provide information about sourcing and preparation.
Commercial Products
Choose products from companies that provide information about standardization, testing for contaminants, and proper plant identification. Look for GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certification.
Growing Your Own
Some herbs like Salam and Sambiloto can be grown in home gardens in tropical climates. This ensures freshness and purity but requires knowledge of proper identification and cultivation.
Conclusion: Balancing Tradition and Modern Medicine
Indonesian herbal traditions offer valuable resources for diabetes management, particularly for those dealing with diabetes mellitus, that deserve attention in our modern healthcare landscape. The herbs discussed—Sambiloto, Brotowali, Salam, Kayu Manis, and Temulawak—represent centuries of empirical knowledge now gaining scientific validation through analysis of their uses in treating type diabetes and managing hyperglycemia.
The most effective approach to diabetes management combines the best of both worlds: the holistic wisdom of traditional practices with the precision and evidence-based approach of modern medicine. Indonesian medicinal plants can play a meaningful role in this integrated approach, potentially helping to improve glycemic control, reduce medication requirements, and address some of the underlying imbalances associated with type diabetes mellitus.
As research continues to validate traditional knowledge, we can expect more standardized, evidence-based applications of these botanical treasures. For now, those interested in exploring Indonesian herbs for diabetes should do so with appropriate knowledge, caution, and professional guidance.
Ready to Explore Natural Options for Diabetes Management?
Always consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable about both conventional and traditional medicine before starting any herbal regimen, especially if you’re currently taking medications for diabetes or other conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Indonesian herbs replace my diabetes medication?
No, Indonesian herbs should not replace prescribed diabetes medications without medical supervision. They are best used as complementary approaches that may help improve overall glycemic control. Any changes to your medication regimen should be discussed with and supervised by your healthcare provider.
How long does it take to see results from Indonesian herbs for diabetes?
Response times vary by individual and herb. Some people report improvements in blood glucose levels within 2-4 weeks of consistent use, while others may take longer. It’s important to monitor blood glucose regularly and maintain realistic expectations. Herbs typically work more gradually than pharmaceutical medications.
Are these herbs safe for everyone with diabetes?
No herbal remedy is universally safe for everyone. People with kidney or liver disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those taking multiple medications should be particularly cautious. Individual allergies, sensitivities, and medication interactions can occur. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal regimen.
Where can I find quality Indonesian herbs in other ASEAN countries?
Look for specialized Asian grocery stores, traditional medicine shops, or reputable online retailers that source directly from Indonesia. In countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, you may find Indonesian herbs in traditional markets or specialty health stores. Always check for product quality, proper plant identification, and testing for contaminants.
