The concept of ramuan (meaning a “mix of ingredients” in Malay) is an everyday one to all age groups in Malaysia, but is virtually unknown outside the country. It refers to the herbal mixtures that Malaysians regularly imbibe to promote health, beauty and balance in their daily lives.

The variety of plants used in Malaysian ramuan depends on the combination of their medicinal properties. Several distinct plant parts including roots, rhizomes, barks, stems, fruits, flowers and seeds are used. Taken both as medicine and food (and increasingly in the form of pre-packaged preparations), the various combinations of plants are relied on by millions to optimize general wellbeing and health.

Most Malaysians have their favourite ulam and certain tried-and-tested recipes used within the family for common ailments.