Experiencing Stomach Problems? Don't Just Choose Herbal Remedies, Check Their BPOM Approval First

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – Stomach health issues continue to be one of the most common complaints among Indonesians. Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, we often neglect the small signals sent by our digestive system.

Irregular eating habits, a penchant for spicy and fatty foods, and prolonged stress have become daily occurrences that are difficult to avoid. Coupled with the habit of staying up late, which disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm, these factors are major triggers for stomach problems such as gastritis, acid reflux, and more chronic conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

This phenomenon is not merely an assumption. A study in urban areas revealed that around 9.35% of Indonesian respondents experience GERD symptoms, a condition that causes heartburn and excruciating chest pain. In fact, this figure has increased dramatically in several other regional surveys, where the prevalence of GERD symptoms is reported to reach more than 55% in certain groups.

These worrying figures are particularly found among those who consistently consume spicy foods and have irregular eating habits. If left untreated, this condition can develop into a more serious disease and have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.

Therefore, education about stomach care, including how to choose safe and appropriate remedies, is very important for all levels of society to understand. In recent years, the trend of treatment has shifted towards a more natural approach.

Herbal medicines are increasingly being sought after as an alternative to conventional treatments because they are considered to be more in harmony with the body’s functions. However, an important warning has emerged: not all herbal products are safe for a troubled stomach. The public is encouraged to be more careful in choosing herbal medicines that have been clinically tested, have a clear composition of ingredients, and, most importantly, are officially registered with the Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan (BPOM).