Jamu, a traditional Indonesian herbal elixir for healing, immune strengthener and prevention of illnesses dating back thousands of years. Jamu (or Djamu) loosely translates to “tonic,”
Serve it chilled or warmed up for the perfect immunity booster this season.
Being predominantly turmeric, ginger, lemon & lime and honey it has so many healing properties including a powerful anti inflammatory, great detoxifier, strong antioxidant, enhances metabolism, improves digestion, excellent for women that are menstruating (it can help so much with PMS symptoms and during menstruation).
Note: If people have reactions to turmeric or have heavy or painful periods speak to your health practitioner before trying Jamu juice. Not recommeded in pregnancy.
JAMU JUICE INGREDIENTS
Things to keep in mind about some of these ingredients:
Make sure to rinse and clean your fresh turmeric and ginger with hot water as you won’t be peeling the skin off.
Be mindful that turmeric can stain! So wash your blender and chopping board immediately after using.
For the liquid base, you can use regular water instead of coconut water. But I’ve chosen to use coconut water to add extra electrolytes.
BENEFITS OF TURMERIC AND GINGER Turmeric and ginger are the super spices of this recipe – and that's why it's so powerful.
TURMERIC Turmeric has become very popular in recent years. And here is why! Turmeric is most known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. And this is all thanks to its star compound: curcumin. This compound not only leads to health benefits for your skin, but can assist with visible signs of aging and brightens and soothes the skin. It is also a great anti-bacterial, detoxifier, and a digestive aid
GINGER Ginger has been used in many cultures around the world for its medicinal properties. From relieving pain to soothing your digestive system, it does wonders when it comes to healing the body. And just like Turmeric, ginger has a compound called gingerol which reduces inflammation, pain for chronic conditions, and so much more. It's awesome for any type of nausea.
LEMON/LIME
These citrus fuits are antioxidants that are loaded with vitamin C, a popular skin booster and digestive aid.
HONEY
Honey has antibacterial, anti-fungal and soothing properties. Since the honey here is meant as a sweetener, the quantity used may vary based on your taste. However, for maximum benefit, raw honey is recommended.
Optional ingredients Tamarind acts as a natural preservative for the Jamu as well as balancing out the stronger flavors of Turmeric and Ginger. It is nutrient rich in vitamins A, B and C to name a few, as well as calcium, Iron, and dietary fiber. It works well to boost blood circulation, relieve pain, reduce fevers and ease menstruation. I ADD THIS
Black pepper to aid in the absorption of curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric. Just a pinch will do. SOMETIMES I ADD THIS
Virgin Coconut Oil creates a fat-soluble bond with the curcumin to increase its bioavailability in the body, making it easier to absorb and more effective OR Coconut Water. I use both, Coconut water or water is easier for preparation. This recipe is for Coconut water, but for oil use water in recipe and add around 2 tablespoons of Coconut oil with lemon juice/honey etc.
Cinnamon works to lower blood sugar and relieves muscle soreness, stiffness or spasms. SOMETIMES I ADD THIS
Keep in mind.
Use fresh, raw ingredients if possible, especially turmeric and ginger.
Make sure to rinse and clean your fresh turmeric and ginger with hot water as you won’t be peeling the skin off.
Be mindful that turmeric can stain! So wash your blender and chopping board immediately after using.
For the liquid base, you can use regular water instead of coconut water. But I’ve chosen to use coconut water to add extra electrolytes.
RECIPE
Makes around 2 litres
Equipment needed:
Mixer, Blender or Thermomix (I use Thermomix)
Pot
Fine Sieve or Muslin Cloth
Ingredients:
180g Turmeric root, peeled and chopped into smaller pieces
150g Tamarind paste
40g Ginger root, peeled and chopped into smaller pieces
4 Tbsp Lemon or lime juice or mix
1-2 Tbsp Honey, to taste
2L Water or half water half coconut water, mix and match
Directions:
Place the turmeric, ginger, tamarind, and water in a large enough pot and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let simmer for at least 20 minutes.
Transfer the ingredients to a mixer; add the lemon/lime juice, tamarind and honey (and pepper. Mix well. Let it sit covered overnight or in your thermomix
Strain the mixture through a sieve or muslin cloth. Bottle in a glass jar and refrigerate.
Served chilled or warm.
Enjoy!!
HOW LONG DOES THIS LAST?
Jamu juice should last about 1 week in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight jar and give it a good stir or shake before serving.