Jamu: Indonesian traditional herbal medicine towards rational phytopharmacological use

Jamu is the Indonesian traditional herbal medicine that has been practised for many centuries in the Indonesian community to maintain good health and to treat diseases. Although modern (conventional) medicine is becoming increasingly important in Indonesia, jamu is still very popular in rural as well as in urban areas. Based on its traditional use jamu is being developed into a rational form of therapy, by herbal practitioners and in the form of phytopharmaceuticals. Jamu has acquired a potential benefit, both economically and clinically. We surveyed the most frequently used plants in jamu that have also been investigated regarding their constituents and pharmacological effects. The Indonesian government has divided the preparation of medicinal plants into three categories, i.e. jamu, standardized herbal medicines and fitofarmaka (phytomedicines). As the biological activity ascribed to jamu is largely based on empirical data, more research is needed to scientifically prove efficacy and to assure safety. In the further development of jamu, ethical issues such as intellectual property rights, benefit sharing, biodiversity and conservation need to be considered. This paper aims to review the current status of jamu and to give comprehensive views that can be used in its future development for the further improvement of its utility in curing illnesses and maintaining good health.