Jamu For Health

What is Jamu? 

Jamu is the traditional healing system of Indonesia and incorporates specific herbal combinations prepared in many forms (liquid, capsules, pills etc), but commonly as a delicious daily beverage for all members of the family. In the ancient past the health and beauty system of Jamu was preserved by the Royal families of Indonesia, whereas now it is mainstream in society. While many families prepare Jamu fresh, others purchase their Jamu every morning from female “Jamu Gendong” sellers, throughout the Indonesian archipelago.

In Jamu, disease is often seen to be due to factors such as wind & cold and hence the herbal beverages have a tangy pungency and spice to activate circulation and improve digestion and elimination. Modern research has also discovered that the ingredients in Jamu contain potent anti-ageing compounds with antioxidant, anticancer and cellular protective properties. Many of the herbs are also specific for maintaining female and male sexual health and hormonal balance. Other Jamu treatments involve massage, diet therapy and oil applications.

Cafe Jamu products are made from only the finest herbal ingredients and prepared to ensure maximum herbal activity and efficacy. All our products are 100% natural and no chemical additives are used at any time. When you buy from Cafe Jamu you can be assured that each ingredient has been carefully selected and prepared under GMP manufacturing practice. All our capsule products are fully registered with the Malaysian Ministry of Health. To ensure your complete satisfaction we offer a replacement of any products you are not satisfied with or your money back.




 Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Kunyit

One of the Turmeric most well-researched and potent antioxidant herbs known. It contains Cur cumin that has been shown to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, liver strengthening and detoxifying properties.





 Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Jahe / Halia

A potent antioxidant spice that relieves nausea, indigestion and acts as a natural pain killer. Taking daily relieves many inflammatory conditions, joint aches, period cramps, arthritis and intestinal irritability.




Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) - Asam Jawa

Tamarind is an important addition to most Jamu recipes as it adds the pleasant sweet & sour taste to balance out the mild bitterness of the other ingredients. Tamarind is rich in Vitamin C and acts as a natural preservative and antioxidant in the Jamu formulation. Medicinally, Tamarind is a gentle laxative that helps promote bowel movements. It also has a cooling effect on the body and helps relieve nausea.

These 3 fresh herbs are the main ingredients in our Princess Ayu Jamu and Kunyit Asam Jamu.
Additional important Ginger family herbs used in the above include: Lempoyang (Zingiber zerumbet), Temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza), Temu Kunci (Boesenbergia rotunda) & Kencur / Cekur (Kaempferia galanga).

Herbal Tips

Skin Cleanser:
Found in your own kitchen is a simple, chemical free cleanser good oil unboiled milk. All you need to do is dip a piece of cotton wool in milk and wipe your face with it. It also cleans unseen dirt and goes down into your pores. Another fine cleanser is almond oil, especially effective in protecting the delicate skin under the eyes.
 
Skin Moisturizer:
For normal skin care, you can take 1 cup of yogurt, 1 tablespoon orange juice and 1 tablespoon lemon juice and mix it into a paste.  Apply it on your face as a mask and keep it on for 15 minutes.  Then clean it off with a wet tissue watch your complexion glow.  For dry skin, you could use a mixture of cooked oatmeal and honey; it will not only help moisturize the skin but also acts as a good cleansing agent.
 
Skin Nourishment and Bleach:
For nourishing your face try a protein mask.  You can prepare this mask by first soaking 1 tablespoon urad dal and 4 almonds in water overnight and then grinding them into a paste. You can then apply this protein mask to your face and wash it off after half an hour. This exceptional protein mask will not only nourish the skin but also bleach it. 
 
Wrinkle Prevention and Softer Skin:
To prevent wrinkles and soften your skin, you could try pure castor oil; it is known to slow down the aging process of the skin.
 
Skin Conditioner:
Another simple and excellent skin conditioner that can be made out of 1 tbsp. honey blended with 2 tbsp. cream (of milk). Leave it on for a few minutes and wash it off. It works like magic. 
 
Skin Blemishes:
For skin blemishes, you can try rubbing a raw potato on your face.
 
Sun Protection Skin:
It's summer time. Time to cool off. So let's wind up with a good home-made sun-protection lotion. Take cucumber juice and equal amounts of glycerine and rose water and make a concoction. This should be refrigerated. Try it, it's really cool.

Skin Icing : Facial Beautifies Skin

Skin icing has become a popular morning and evening ritual for better looking skin. Cold therapy has been used in spas and in skin care treatments for several years and for numerous reasons, including cryotherapy (treatments using cold temperatures), to destroy fat cells (CoolSculpting), and get rid of spider veins (through Cryo 6, a new method of sclerotherapy). Skin icing is a regular practice in the skin care routine for Korean women, who are known for their detailed beauty rituals.


1. Skin Smoother
Skin icing helps tighten and shrink enlarged pores by helping to unclog pores that can appear larger due to debris and excess sebum. Icing tones the face, making it look smoother.

2. Pore Primer
Icing is an inexpensive skin toner and is great to do before applying makeup. It minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores underneath the makeup, helping foundation look smoother and flawless. Ice the face and then apply primer.

3. Improves Circulation
Ice is believed to improve circulation in the skin. Cold constricts the blood vessels so that less blood goes to the surface of the skin (which reduces any inflammation or swelling). The body responds by gradually by sending an increased flow of warm blood to the area.

4. Relief for Puffy Eyes
Icing reduces puffiness under the eyes by reducing swelling.
 
5. Wrinkle Buster
Skin icing can ease the signs of wrinkles and slow the appearance of new wrinkles.

6. Blemish Control
Ice can help reduce swelling and the redness of pimples. It also soothes irritated skin.

6 Asian Beauty Secrets to Get Gorgeous Skin

Is there something we're missing?

We always hear about how Asian celebs have such flawless skin and these days, more and more beauty products are starting to incorporate ingredients that have been traditionally known in Asia to promote beauty like green tea, for example. There seems to be only one link to all of this: Asian. So we went and dug deeper to find out what other skincare secrets we could be missing out from our Asian peers and let's just say, it's time to change your skincare routine because it's going to be so worth it! 

1. Oil cleansing

 

 When it comes to cleansers, opt for an oil-based one. According to Victoria Thai, the founder of skincare line Thatch, cleansing oils work very well because oil dissolves oil; whether it's makeup, sunscreen or sebum, they literally melt away upon contact. Just be sure to pick one without mineral oil to avoid leaving residue on your skin  or else, hello breakouts!

2. The 424 method 

4 minutes of oil cleansing (as mentioned in point 1) to remove makeup
2 minutes using a foaming cleanser to remove any remaining residuals and to refresh the skin.
4 minutes to rinse with water.
The Japanese people also has a similar concept to this way of cleansing and it's been practice for centuries. They call it double cleansing.  


3. Slap it on!

 

 When it comes to applying moisturizer/lotion, the Koreans and Japanese share another similar beauty secret. Instead of rubbing the product, try gently slapping or patting it on. The belief is that it would stimulate blood flow while ensuring the product is better absorbed into the skin. Don't forget the neck area as well! 




4. Rice water toner



Looks like the ancient Chinese women believed in up cycling  well, sort of. When it comes to toning their skin and enhancing their complexion, they used one secret product: rice water. Find out how you can get rice water and use it as a facial toner.


 5. Lighten with mint






 Basically, it's the gentlest and more natural way to lighten dark spots on your skin caused by sun damage (sun care protection, people!) or acne scars. All you have to do is grind fresh mint leaves into a paste and smooth it over your face as a mask. Wash it off after 15 minutes. 


 6. Coffee bean exfoliation



 How did we not know about this? Our neighbors in Indonesia have been using grounded coffee as a powerful natural exfoliate for AGES! The caffeine in coffee is often used in skin tightening products while its caffeine acid has anti-inflammatory properties and can also boost collagen production. Looks like you know what to do with your leftover coffee grounds now. 

Skin Secret of Women

Women from many of the countries in Asia enjoy good health and a longer lifespan thanks to their traditional diet.It turns out that some of the homegrown secrets that keep Asian women healthy on the inside also help them look great on the outside.


Tissue masks

Tissue or sheet masks aren't as well known in North America, but they're a popular part of Japanese and Korean beauty routines. These masks come all in one piece for easy application: just open, unfold the mask, and apply. Many of them include anti-aging ingredients, including some of the newest in skin-care technology, and there's one for every skin type.is loaded with vitamin C and hydrates skin for 24 hours.

Lighten dark spots on your skin with mint

Looking for a gentle and natural way to lighten dark spots on your skin caused by sun damage or acne scars? Use mint: grind the fresh leaves into a paste, apply it over your face as a mask, and leave on for 15 minutes before washing off. You'll get the best result if you repeat this daily, but be careful if you have sensitive skin.

Eat goji berries

In Chinese Traditional Medicine, it's believed that skin health is directly related to the amount of heat in the blood. Wolf-berries  better known in North America as goji berries  are believed to nourish both the liver and blood

Cleanse your skin with rice water

Next time you cook some jasmine rice at home, keep that water and use it to wash your skin to increase softness.Rice is a source of antioxidants like vitamin E, and some of those end up in the water when you cook it. It's an inexpensive way to take advantage of ingredients found in many expensive skin-care products.

Exfoliate with coffee beans

Indonesian women have long used coffee grounds as a powerful natural exfoliant. The caffeic acid in coffee is anti-inflammatory and may boost collagen production, and caffeine is used in skin tightening products.

Amla oil

Amla oil (or gooseberry oil) is a potent source of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. For centuries, Indian women have been applying amla oil to their hair and scalp every day in order.

Use matcha as a face mask

Matcha is a powdered green tea used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. It's a source of antioxidants when you drink it, and that will help your skin on its own, but you can also use it on your skin to increase brightness. Many skin products now contain green tea or matcha, if you don't want to take the DIY approach.

Oil cleansing

It sounds counterintuitive, but cleansing your skin with oil can actually improve its texture and fight breakouts. The Japanese brand Shu Uemura was making oil cleansers decades before they became trendy on this side of the Pacific.The company's founder says that oil cleansing is the best way to get a gentle but effective cleanse for your skin.

Fibre mascaras

Here's another beauty trend that originated in Japan: fibre mascaras. These mascaras attach fibres to your lashes to actually make them longer, not just longer looking, and the technology has now been embraced by North American brands like Maybelline. As a bonus, you don't need eye makeup remover to get the mascara off -- just use warm water and gentle wiping.

Cover your face in kelp

Seaweed and kelp are used in Chinese and Japanese cuisines for their concentrated nutrients, but they are also a part of traditional skin-care treatments. Imperial courtesans in China used natural exfoliants to remove dead skin cells, and seaweed and kelp were among their favorites. You can make your own gel mask using aloe vera gel a great skin soother.

Embrace the beautifying power of bird poop

Here's a beauty secret that Posh Spice is allegedly a fan. Japanese geishas have used the dried droppings from these birds for centuries because of their rumoure11. d abilities to soften and brighten skin. The pricey facials are now available at spas across North America -- maybe this is a twist on the superstition that it's good luck if a bird poops on you?

Get gorgeous all over with coconut oil

Coconuts are used in many traditional Thai dishes, but they're also a source of one of the best beauty products out there coconut oil. This oil, which is solid at room temperature, is an excellent moisturizer for skin and hair -- it even makes a great diaper cream! And there's nothing bad about smelling like the beach all the time.

Tradition Malay Pantang For Beauty

 

Malay confinement is essential an all-encompassing process that aims to preserve the health and feminin of Malay women.Practices stem from the belief that the womb is a woman life force and affects her overall health.A healthy womb ensures that a woman stays radiant and alluring.

Many urban new mothers in the Malay community find themselves unable to fully observe the practices of the traditional confinement, mainly because they lack the family and community support that made pantang possible. Traditionally, a new mum in confinement is helped by either:

• a bidan (traditional midwife);
• a specialized nanny or carer;
• or, her own mother or mother-in-law

some practices are still observed by many Malay women. Some have been adapted to suit more urban lifestyles. 

• Bengkung
• Postnatal massage
• Jamu
• Hot Compress
• Herbal Bath

The Secret Herbs For Beauty

 Discover which secret herbs can be used to maintain beautiful, healthy skin. Herbs have been used for centuries to help treat skin conditions, improve skin quality and enhance the skin’s appearance.


The Consider herbs or herbal products for a natural, healthy alternative to pricey treatment products. Make your own skin care products, with home grown herbs or herbs purchased from the health food store. Maintaining healthy skin to ensure proper skin performance and improve your skin appearance.

Chamomile

a plant and comes in many different varieties.The chamomile flower that is used for medicinal purposes.Chamomile is dried and used to brew chamomile tea or in potpourri. Chamomile is considered a safe herb to use on the skin of adults and children. It IS anti-inflammatory and contains antimicrobial properties that are excellent in treating inflammatory skin ailments such as eczema, common diaper rash and psoriasis. Chamomile can also be use in the healing of wounds, as its extracts are thought to hurry the healing process. Chamomile can be used as part of your daily skin regimen as it is soothing and gentle and can inhibit inflammation of the skin and skin infections.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm,only in the culinary world, has many medicinal uses. Lemon balm leaves are traditionally used to brew teas and drink mixtures. Lemon balm leaves are very aromatic and wonderful flavor to many culinary dishes.Lemon balm works wonders medicine as well. Washing cuts or scrapes in a bath of lemon balm tea acts as an antiseptic,when using it on bug bites or skin inflammation can be quite soothing.Lemon balm has potent anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities that can be beneficial in the treatment of cold sores and herpes simplex virus.

Red Clover

Red clover has many medicinal use.The flowers and flower blossoms of red clover are used for medicinal purposes. For skin conditions, red clover is used external as an ointment or salve. Red clover is use in treating a variety of skin ailments including eczema, acne, psoriasis and rashes. Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid red clover because its properties may mimic that of estrogen. Like are women with a history of breast cancer should also avoid red clover.

Rose Water

Rose water its natural beauty and skin care benefits. Rose water is frequently used in the treatment of various skin ailments. Rose water is highly regard as a superb skin toner,it is a natural astringent. Rose water is also an excellent cleans due to its anti-inflammatory qualities. Wash with rose water daily can decrease the appearance of clogged pores, which can lead to pimples. Rose water also has the ability to act as a disinfectant, cleansing the skin of bacteria that may lead to skin irritations or infections.It is said that rose water, when applied hourly, may prevent sunburn.

 

 

Malaysian Traditional Treatments Beauty

 
The Traditional Malay medicine and treatment is a national treasure house of health discipline that have been handed down from generation to generation.With a history of more than a thousand years, the practice is believed to have its original in the convergence of Malay, Arab, Indian, and Chinese influence during the days.

Malaysia is blessed with one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world, housing an abundance of natural vegetation with healing properties. Malay herbal treatments use a combination of various indigenous herbs and plants,contain with a natural vitamins, minerals and curative properties such as Cekur (galangal), Kunyit (turmeric), Sireh (piper betel), and Inai (henna leaves).


UKUP WANGI (SCENTED BODY STEAMING)
 
This stimulation ritual was a popular practice in the Malay court house among the princes and court ladies in preparation for the wedding night.The warm oil with the exotic fragrance of a combination of several flower buds and sweet spices is rubbed onto the body.The heat and moist air from the zip-up bag awakens the skin and muscle tone to a firm, radiant and smooth texture.Ukup Wangi leaves a hauntingly fresh sweet aroma, while stimulating your senses.


 RENDAM-RENDAM (SITS BATH) 

They has been practised among Malay women from generation to generation for the wellness of the genital organs and the firmness of the vaginal muscles as they age. The curative properties of the natural antiseptics of Daun Sireh (Piper betel) and Black Seed relieve and soothe irritations from fungal infections and heavy discharge as the body is immersed in the specially prepared herbal concoct. It is highly recommended for piles and genital discomfort and also helps to strengthen the uterus after childbirth and menstruation.



SEGAR BAYU (BODY REJUVENATING TREATMENT)

 The relax Malay massage using long rhythmic strokes and thumb rolling techniq soothes every nerve and lulls the soul. Let your spirit float in ecstasy as the aromatic zip-up bag scented with Limau Purut (kaffir lime) and Daun Pandan (pandanus leaves) envelops your body,to help you to relax deeply and discharge pent-up feelings of stress. Refine the skin and stimulate blood circulation with the herbal body scrub before indulging in the freshly brewed herbal bath for total bliss.



 JARI-JEMARI (HAND AND FOOT SOAK)

This is an indulgence for the senses. Firstly, both the hands and feet are soaked in a warm herbal bath. You can feel a tingling sensation as the herbs work their way to help relieve aches, improve circulation, reduce inflammation and joint conditions. Secondly, a scrub and massage to soothe and pamper your tired limbs follow this soak.

Beauty Secrets Hidden in Indian Herbs

 Blooming Sunflower

 India has one of the oldest and richest cultural traditions associated with the use of traditional folk herbs. It brings into practice application of indigenous beliefs, knowledge and skills in favor of human health. Treatment of various ailments via herbs is the oldest form of healthcare known to all cultures throughout the history. Various parts of herbs, like the stems, leaves, roots, flowers and fruits, are used to cure health and skin disorders. In this age of growing medical costs and side-effects, people are turning to herbs, the ‘natural medicines’. Herbs are on menu cards of folk’s conscious of their regular diets. People prefer green herbs, not only because of their low fatty oil content, which is for good health, but also to maintain and restore their vibrant beauty.

Herbs are a real boon for all creatures living on this planet called ‘Earth’. Man has been using herbs for thousands of years, and learn about their aromatic, therapeutic and savory properties through trial and error. According to the tribes of Palatal, in Central India, there is no single herb that is useless. This is indeed true; there isn’t any culture on earth that does not include the use of herbs as medicines. Herbs play a major role in beauty aids as well as therapies.

This article looks at the ten most important Indian medicinal plants used in beauty care. Information has not only been gathered from recent literature, or prior art search, but also includes some uncommon herbal practices performed by the tribes of Patalkot.

Castor (Ricinus communis)

 Castor is soothing and lubricating to the skin. It acts as a expectant, attracting moisture to the skin.Its application before hair wash is known to condition dry and damaged hair. It improves growth of eyelashes. Castor is used extensively for the preparation of hair conditioner because of its ability to heal dry and damaged brittle hair. Castor oil is frequently used as a solvent for oil-soluble sunscreens. It is effective against abdominal stretch marks (prevention), age spots, sunburn, open sores, pimples, etc. Daily applications of castor oil to warts is said to remove them in a few weeks. A hair wash prepared from castor oil is known to keep hair from falling, and cleansing it of dandruff. It provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection against tans and signs of skin ageing. Hydrogenated castor oil, or its esters, are useful for cleansing and conditioning the skin.

Hemp (Cannabis sativa)

 Cannabis sativa (hemp) oil is clinically proven for its anti-inflammatory property. It is beneficial for laser-treated or peeled, stressed, acne-prone, sun-damaged and aging skin. Hemp seed oil is one of the world’s richest sources of EFAs (Essential Fatty Acid), and other nutrients responsible for strong healthy keratin formation. Hemp seed oil’s high lipid content helps increase elasticity, volume, shine and easy combing. Its fatty acid composition and high performance moisturizing emollients make it an ideal ingredient for both dry hair and scalp conditions. Hemp seed oil’s high level of EFAs makes it an ideal ingredient for skin cleansers. It has a positive effect on dry and rough skin. This oil is especially beneficial for indoor, self-tanning, or after-sun care because of its excellent spread ability and skin moisturizing properties. 

Mango (Mangifera indica)

Mango kernel oil consists of triglycerides which give high emollient to the skin. Mango butter, extracted from the fruit’s kernels, melts readily on contact with the skin and disperses evenly. It may be used for dryness to assist miniaturization after exposure to the sun and other harsh elements. The film formed on the skin by butter retains moisture and restores the skins softness and suppleness; therefore, it is used as an ingredient in skin care products, lotions, massage creams and hair and sun care products. Mango butter also reduces degeneration of skin cells and restores elasticity. Semi-liquid mango oil is used in conditioners and shampoos for improved combing and a healthy shine to hair.

 

 

Beauty Secrets of Traditional Chinese Medicine

The Original Purposes of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) originated approximately 3,000 years ago, and served as a holistic approach to healing. These treatments often used herbal remedies in order to address skin disorders and other overall health problems. TCM would also often encompass procedures such as acupuncture and qigong exercises.

Using the herbs found in EpiCalmnin TCM, which include extracts of Lonicera japonica flowers, Cyperus rotundus roots, and Xanthium sibiricum fruits, TCM is able to produce extraordinary changes in the skin. The affects of these herbal remedies include reduced inflammation and increased protection against bacteria. Simply put, these herbs have long been believed to be able to strengthen the natural defenses within the skin.

TCM Undergoes Extensive Scientific Testing and Analysis  

In recent years, researchers have been paying closer attention to the merits of TCM and the implications this compound can have for the overall health of the body, as well as the skin. Studies have been conducted in order to determine how the traditional Chinese medicine blend of herbs affects the metabolism of cells, including those with known DNA-markers for skin disorders. The results of these trials gave those looking for natural anti-aging remedies reason to be very optimistic.

The TCM compound of plant extracts has been found to be able to trigger the skin cell’s natural defense system, enabling the skin to protect against free radicals that would cause damage and signs of aging. As skin ages, it tends to experience the break down of collagen, and a reduction in strength and elasticity. The traditional Chinese medicine compound was able to counteract these trends, greatly reducing the common signs of aging. 

Using Traditional Chinese Medicine To Naturally Treat Skin Problems 

These all natural skin remedies opens many exciting opportunities for those interested in treating dry or irritated skin, as well as those who would like to protect against future signs of aging on the skin. TCM is gentle and effective because it works with the natural structures of the skin in order to provide incredible results. 

Malaysian Traditions of Ramuan : Health and Beauty from the Rainforest

What is Ramuan?

The Malaysian system of Ramuan is over 2000 years old.  Like Malaysia itself, it now contains a blend of influences from China, India, and elsewhere.  The term ramuan refers to a collection of ingredients.  Gathering herbs and other healing plants from the rainforest is an integral part of Malaysian health and beauty traditions.

Coconut Water Face Wash

Historically, women washed their face with fresh coconut water or rice water, because it was more emollient than plan water.  They used a powder made from rice flour, jasmine root, and turmeric to refresh the complexion.  Suddenly my powdered goat’s milk face cleanser doesn’t sound so strange.

Aromatic Hair Steaming

Brides-to-be would steam and scent their hair by passing a container smoking with a special charcoal and frankincense in and around the hair.

Herbal Sitz Bath

These are customarily taken once a day for 3-7 days after a woman has her period.   A special combination of herbs, including betel and henna leaves, are boiled in water and added to a small hip bath.  It’s supposed to maintain health vaginal tissues and muscles.

Dry “Feminine” Sauna

Another tradition was for women to create a small dry sauna out of a coconut shell to be used specifically for the feminine area. The shell was filled with a heated pebble covered in pounded herbs such as turmeric and Kaffir lime.  A group of women would socialize as they sat with their coconut shell saunas hidden under their sarongs.

Morning Anti Aging Elixir

How amazing does this drink sound! It’s made from ground rose buds and jasmine (among other ingredients) and stored in a banana leaf to be taken each morning before breakfast with warm water or honey.  It is touted as an excellent way for women to balance their hormones.

Pregnancy, Birth, and Post-Natal Massage

Massage is no joke in Malaysia where they have a long history of various types and techniques.  Massage is important for women in all stages of pregnancy.  Women are given a hot stone massage known as urutan tuaman batu from the fourth to 35 day following delivery.  Yes, please.

Body Binding

In Malaysia, a woman’s abdoman is wrapped in a tight cloth after childbirth for 23 hours a day.  Beforehand, an ointment of tamarind juice, betel lead, black seed, turmeric, nutmeg, and ginger is applied to the stomach.  It is supposed to encourage the contraction of the uterus, prevent stretch marks, reshape the body, and break down “fats and cellulite in the cells.”

Many modern Malaysian women swear by this technique.  Some Americans, too.  Dancing with the Stars host Brooke Burke made body binding famous when she launched BabooshBaby, an online store for modern body binding gear.

I’d be interested to know if any of you have tried this.  

Malay Beauty Treatments and Traditional Malay Beauty Practices

Malay Beauty Treatments

Muka berseri purnama mengambang
kulitnya licin pauh dilayang
rambut ikal mayang seludang
buyung petani leher jinjang
badan lampai tinggi
betis bunting padi 

History
The history of Malaysian beauty treatments can be traced back to nearly a thousand years and richly influenced by local Malays, Arabs, Chinese, Indians, Javanese and countless other races that have come and resided in Malaya then.

For example, the beloved "minyak urut" can be traced to the Arabs who used to boil oil with camel fat to give the oil a natural heating property. The camel fat have since been replaced by herbs with natural warming properties such as ginger, black pepper, onion, garlic but the concept remains essentially the same. 

Secrets from Generations
Traditional Malay beauty treatments are generally family secrets that are handed down from generation to generation and rarely shared for commercial gain. However, with younger generations showing less interest in the traditional beauty treatments, older generations are more willing to share less the art dies with the lack of practitioners.

Traditional Malay Beauty Practices

Traditional Malay beauty practice gives equal importance to internal and external beauty treatments. Internal beauty treatments are practiced by taking various jamu/herbal drinks to maintain general health or for more specific benefits.

External beauty treatment involves detoxification process by way of Malay traditional massage and various other treatments from head to toe. Some of the best and most unique Malay treatments are described in this page: 

Malay Traditional Massage
Therapeutic Massage from Head to ToeTraditionally done on the floor, the traditional Malay massage is a therapeutic massage from head to toe. The massage combines stretching, stepping, long kneading strokes and pressure applied to various part of the body. 

For the massage, unique Malay massage oils are used which are prepared by boiling palm oil with various herbs and spices with warming and detoxifying properties.

• Bertungku
  Iron Cast CompressBertungku with heated river stone (Iron cast compress) and various fresh leaves (for example: betel leaves, turmeric leaves, melastoma (daun senduduk), Wild pepper leaves (Daun kaduk), and even banana leaves).
  
  During confinement, the midwives or bidan may warm the new mother's abdomen by applying a smooth, heated stone (Iron cast compress). This is reputed to "cleanse the womb" to prevent illness, speed the shrinking of the uterus and therefore return a pre-pregnancy figure.

• Tangas
  Special Single BenchTangas using herbs with astringent properties (requires a special single bench and earthen pot to boil the herbs) is traditionally used by young women at the end of their period to help reduce excessive white discharge, fungal infections and unpleasant odor.
  
  Used as part and parcel of postnatal treatment, the tangas is also believed to firm up vaginal muscles and reduce inflammations.

• Herbal Bath
  Relax YourselfA traditional herbal bath with herbs rich in essential oils are commonly practiced at the end of a massage treatment to bring forth a sense of calm and further relaxes the client.
  
  Herbs normally used in the herbal bath are lemongrass, citronella, guava leaves, kaffir lime leave and fruit. The herbs are freshly boiled and mixed with bath water. Flowers are also added to enhance the therapeutic experience.

• Cream Bath
  Natural Shine to Your HairCream bath with a combination of natural based cream, hibiscus gel and virgin coconut oil applied on the scalp to promote healthy scalp and strengthen hair.
  
  This traditional treatment is commonly practiced as a weekly deep conditioning treatment to bring a natural shine to the hair.

• Post Natal Treatments
  Beauty Treatments for New MothersIn Malay tradition, new mothers follow a strict 6 weeks confinement periodusing herbs, spices and oils to enable them to heal and adjust to the latest addition to the family.
  
  Postnatal treatments help new mothers strengthen and fortify their bodies, soothe and calms their inner spirit and most importantly help them recover in the shortest time possible.

Traditional Malay beauty tips for the bride

Look your best on your wedding day with these traditional Malay beauty tips to give yourself extra glow and radiance. The following are some simple beauty tips which have proven to be so effective, you might want to continue practising them even after the wedding ceremony.





For traditional skincare, you could look for products which contain these natural ingredients or even make these yourself in your kitchen. Rose water is one of the best natural cleansers around. Turnip, lime or cucumber juices are great as toners with great nourishing properties for your skin. Another beauty tip is to use soaked rice pounded with tumeric as a facial scrub. Tumeric, a natural anti-inflammatory astringent, has been used for thousands of years and is still being used by spas today to enhance fairness, control acne and leave the skin silky smooth. So make sure you follow this beauty tip the next time you shop for your skin products.





A traditional way to give natural shine to your hair is to wash it in a cream bath. The beauty tip is to use a combination of natural-based creams, virgin coconut oil and hibiscus gels. Apply it onto your scalp and allow the cream to do its work. Practise this beauty tip once a week and you will have luscious hair come your wedding day.

Another great beauty tip you may want to experience is the mandi bunga or flower bath. This particular bath originated from the Malay royal houses and is used today to enhance the natural beauty and inner shine of a woman. As the name suggests, the bath is performed using several types of flowers such as jasmine, dew magnolia and so forth. This luxurious beauty tip will definitely leave you feeling like a queen.

So if you've been feeling stressed out, try some of these traditional beauty tips today. You'll start feeling like a whole new you and ready to take on the challenges of planning your wedding again.

3 NATURAL BEAUTY SECRETS AND TIPS FOR BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SKIN

Beautiful skin is one of the most attractive indicators of beauty and youth. Good sleep, plenty of water and stress free life are some of the most basic and important ingredients of youthful and beautiful appearance. And yea, healthy eating is also crucial!
Our face and our hands are two particularly important (and visible to everyone) areas on our body that reflect our overall health and wellbeing.
So, today we will talk about 3 simple, yet great, secrets on how to keep the skin of our face, hands and the whole body beautiful and healthy:

1) Morning beauty ritual for your FACE

Some people love using ice cubes on their face every morning to freshen and rejuvenate the skin. This ritual is great, but it can be a little harsh, especially for sensitive and redness prone skin. So, here is an alternative way to do it: simply wipe your face in the morning with cold raw milk. You can also mix the milk with cucumber juice and wipe your face with it using a cotton ball. Rinse your face with cold water once you are done. Not only it will instantly freshen your face, but also, it will help cleanse your skin and improve your skin tone, leaving your face extremely soft, glowing and fresh.

2) Use coffee for the beauty of your HANDS

Yes, simple coffee that you drink every day can be used for skin care. Why coffee? Well, coffee grounds are a natural exfoliator. Exfoliation removes dead, dry skin cells from skin surface and boosts natural skin renewal process, making your skin look healthy and glowing.

Here is a good beauty recipe: mix coffee grounds (from your morning coffee) with olive oil (or any other oil of your choice; avoid using petroleum based oils and give your preference to natural ingredients) and massage your hands with this homemade hand scrub for a couple of minutes, use the same circular motions as those you do while applying your hand cream. Rinse your hands with lukewarm water. Your hands will feel very soft and tender. If you do this twice a week, your hands will look wonderful!

3) Wonderful natural BODY scrub recipe

And, finally, here is a recipe of simple, wonderful, homemade body scrub: mix 2 tablespoons of used coffee grounds, 1 tablespoon of sugar and 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Massage your body with this scrub while in the shower, applying it in circular motions; especially concentrate on the areas with cellulite, on your legs and on dry areas of your body. You will notice an amazing difference on how this scrub will make your skin look and feel – soft, tender and velvety!