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The Spice Roads: A revitalized taste of trade, culture and history
Indonesia once played a vital role in changing the world through spices, pushing globalization forward. It is about to do so again.
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An array of spices in wooden bowls (Shutterstock/FotoSajewicz)
A
lthough it has yet to be clinically tested, some experts recommend the consumption of certain spices that may produce immunomodulators, substances that help regulate or normalize the immune system.
Molecular biology expert Chaerul Anwar Nidom of Airlangga University in Surabaya said “curcumin”, which could be found in turmeric, ginger and cinnamon, could help cure infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
As it is not scientifically proven, it’s not difficult to brush off the claim, but in a society where spices have formed a part of everyday life for generations, people may be inclined to believe it.
Kompas reported that the sales of mixed spices known as empon-empon, usually used as seasonings or to brew a herbal tonic drink, had doubled at wet markets over the past week as people bought large bags of the blends.
The news outlet also reported on Friday that the price of jamu (traditional herbal drink) had also seen an increase due to the high demand for its constituent ingredients.
The Indonesian archipelago has been known throughout history for its wealth of spices, including nutmeg, cloves, ginger, pepper and cinnamon, carried to the world by its sailors.
Their healing properties, distinctive tastes and aromas and benefits caused the spices to be sought after worldwide. The trade routes were known by many names, such as the Spice Trails, the Spice Routes or the Maritime Silk Roads.
