Empowerment of Women Farmers Group in Sambueja Village through Training of Instant Herbal Drink Making

Abstract

The Women Farmers Group has an essential role in managing regional natural products.
Sambueja Village, Simbang District, Maros Regency is one of the villages that develops
ginger and lemongrass cultivation. Local people generally cultivate ginger and lemongrass
plants and then sell them in the fresh form to collectors or the market, so they have low
economic value. If they don't sell, they can cause damage, causing farmers to lose money.
Processing is required to raise the product's selling price and lengthen its shelf life. An
instant herbal beverage made from lemongrass and ginger can be produced utilizing
crystallization technology. People still do not fully utilize their natural products because
of the lack of information regarding the health benefits of lemongrass and ginger and how
to use them as products. This volunteer project involved educating people about the health
advantages of lemongrass and ginger, how to make instant herbal beverages with
lemongrass and ginger, and packing instant herbal drinks in standing pouches sealed with
a hand sealer. As a result of this service, the Women Farmers Group gained a greater
understanding of the health benefits of ginger and lemongrass and how to use them.
Additionally, packaged instant herbal drink products made by the Women Farmers Group
were obtained, which could serve as a stimulus for future product development.