Water decoction of Labisia pumila

The plant is traditionally boiled and the water extraction is taken as a drinks. The family of Myrsinaceae is part of a genus of approximately 7 species and is found in Southeast Asia in the lowlands and hill forests of Malaysia at an altitude of 300 to 700 m. It is a small sub-herbaceous perennial with creeping stems growing from 30 to 40 cm in height. Their leaves are more or less upright and dark green with lighter shade of green at its margin.

It contains elements of antioxidant and phytoestrogen, where these two elements are known to provide goodness to both men and women in the prevention of the appearance of precancerous cells, in stabilizing tissues that need hormone estrogen in strengthening the bone structure through absorption of bone elements and in delaying aging process. Labisia pumila might also modulate the immune matrix as it is one of the important aspects of healthy sate of the living body.

The plant is rich in phytoestrogen and isoflavones, that may ease menopausal symptoms. In Malaysia, Labisia pumila is popularly known locally as Selusuh Fatimah (literally Fatimah's childbirth medicine) and Kacip Fatimah (Fatimahs betel scissors). It has been used by many generations of Malay women in Malay Peninsula. It is to induce and facilitate child birth as well as a post-partum medicine.

Labisia pumila has rejuvenating properties that help women to regain the strength and vigor after giving birth. The water decoction of Kacip Fatimah is usually consumed by women who is afflicted with leucorrhea (intense vaginal discharge) as well as to facilitate the delivery process and for managing diarrhea (loose motion) and flatulency.

A decoction of the herb is administered 1 to 2 months before childbirth to help strengthen and tone abdominal muscles and the vaginal wall and tissue.
Water decoction of Labisia pumila