Beras kencur is a traditional Indonesian herbal drink known for its refreshing and health-boosting properties. With its natural ingredients, this drink has been consumed for generations to relieve fatigue, improve digestion, and increase energy levels. This article will explore the benefits of beras kencur for reducing tiredness and how to make it at home.
What is Beras Kencur?
Beras kencur is a herbal drink made from a mixture of rice (beras), kencur (aromatic ginger), and other spices like tamarind, ginger, and palm sugar. This drink is highly regarded in Javanese and Balinese traditional medicine for its ability to boost energy, relieve aches, and soothe tired muscles. It combines the benefits of carbohydrates from rice and the medicinal properties of kencur, which contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The Benefits of Beras Kencur for Relieving Fatigue
Fatigue is a common issue, especially for those with busy lives. Consuming beras kencur can help rejuvenate the body and restore energy. Here are some key benefits of this herbal drink in combating fatigue:
1. Energy Booster
Beras kencur is a natural energy booster. The rice content provides carbohydrates, which are essential for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. The kencur and ginger add a warming effect that helps stimulate blood circulation, promoting oxygen flow to the muscles, and reducing tiredness.
2. Reducing Muscle Aches
Muscle aches are often a result of physical activity or stress. The anti-inflammatory properties of kencur help relieve muscle pain and stiffness, making beras kencur an ideal drink after a long day of work or exercise.
3. Soothing Digestive Issues
Digestive discomfort can often lead to fatigue. Kencur is known for its ability to soothe the digestive system by reducing bloating, indigestion, and gas. By improving digestion, beras kencur allows the body to absorb nutrients more efficiently, giving you more energy.
4. Improving Overall Well-being
Fatigue can also be linked to stress and mental strain. The calming effect of ginger and kencur helps reduce stress levels and promotes a sense of relaxation. This can lead to better sleep quality, which is essential for restoring energy.
How to Make Beras Kencur at Home
Making beras kencur at home is simple, and it requires only a few ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s a basic recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
- 50 grams of rice
- 50 grams of kencur (aromatic ginger)
- 25 grams of fresh ginger
- 50 grams of palm sugar (or regular sugar)
- 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste
- 500 ml of water
- Pinch of salt
Steps:
- Soak the Rice: Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 3 hours or overnight. This will soften the rice and make it easier to blend.
- Prepare the Spices: Peel and wash the kencur and ginger. Cut them into small pieces.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the soaked rice, kencur, ginger, and tamarind paste with some water. Blend until smooth.
- Boil the Mixture: Transfer the blended mixture to a pot and add the rest of the water. Bring to a boil and add palm sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
- Strain the Mixture: After boiling, strain the mixture to remove any pulp or large pieces of spice.
- Serve: Pour the strained liquid into a glass. You can enjoy it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
When to Drink Beras Kencur
To maximize the benefits of beras kencur, it’s best to drink it when you feel fatigued or after physical activity. You can also have it in the morning to start your day with an energy boost or in the evening to relax after a busy day. Since it’s a natural drink, it can be consumed regularly without worrying about side effects.
Beras kencur is a powerful herbal remedy that can effectively relieve fatigue, boost energy, and improve overall health. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this traditional drink can become a part of your daily routine to help you stay refreshed and energized. Whether you’re dealing with physical exhaustion or mental stress, a glass of beras kencur can be the perfect natural solution. By making beras kencur a part of your life, you not only enjoy its delicious taste but also its numerous health benefits that have been trusted for generations.
