Kelanawisata.id, Yogyakarta - Jamu is a form of traditional medicine that has existed since ancient times. Etymologically, the word “jamu” is believed to derive from the Old Javanese word “djampi,” which can be interpreted as a prayer or medicine. Thus, in essence, jamu signifies a prayer or hope for healing and good health.

Consuming jamu has been a tradition among the royal elite—from the palace (keraton) to the nobility. As times have changed, the tradition of preparing and drinking jamu—which was originally known only within the palace walls—has now spread to communities outside the palace grounds. The palace servants (abdi dalem) who dedicated themselves to crafting jamu within the palace have also contributed to the dissemination of jamu recipes.

One example of this spread can be seen in the existence of the Ginggang Herbal Shop, located just west of the Pakualaman Palace. This shop is one of the oldest herbal shops in Yogyakarta. Its signature style lies in its preparation methods, which preserve traditional techniques while using high-quality ingredients.

Mbah Joyo was once a court physician at Pura Pakualaman during the reign of Paku Alam VII. In 1925, Mbah Joyo was tasked with preparing, blending, and analyzing the herbal remedies consumed by the royal family. After receiving permission from the royal family, his herbal concoctions were introduced to the general public. Jamu Ginggang has been in operation since 1950. The name “Ginggang” was bestowed directly by the palace; in Javanese, it means “tansah renggang,” or “no distance.”

What sets Jamu Ginggang apart lies not only in the ingredients used but also in its production process, which still preserves the use of various traditional tools. Tools such as a mortar, pestle, grater, and a stove fueled by wood and charcoal are still used today in the jamu-making process.

The steps involved in making Jamu Ginggang still follow traditional methods. The spices are first washed using a stone. Afterward, they are pounded in a mortar and pestle until they become finer. Next, the spices are ground further using a grater to achieve the desired texture. Once the ingredients are fully ground, the spices are then simmered in a stove fueled by charcoal and firewood.

The ingredients used by Jamu Ginggang include roots, leaves, stems, seeds, and even flowers. To this day, Jamu Ginggang continues to use traditional ingredients and methods to maintain the quality of its herbal remedies. The shop is now run by the fifth generation, Mrs. Yayuk. Travelers can find the Jamu Ginggang shop on Masjid Street, Kauman Pakualaman, Yogyakarta.