Melinjo plants (Gnetum gnemon) are Gymnosperms (non-flowering plants) that originate from tropical Asia, Melanesia, and the Western Pacific. They belong to the Gnetales order and the Gnetaceae family, with various names and appellations depending on the respective cultivation areas. In Indonesia, the melinjo tree is a popular plant that can be used for its leaves, seeds, and skin. While the leaves are often used as a mix in dishes and the seeds are the main ingredient in making emping chips, the skin of melinjo can also be consumed and has many benefits for the body. A productive plant, melinjo can be harvested twice a year with a fruit yield of up to ±100 kg after 5 years of growth.

Melinjo skin has many nutritional contents such as carbohydrates, vitamin C, phosphorus, iron, protein, vitamin B1, calcium, and vitamin A. Some benefits of melinjo skin include:

Preventing gout, as melinjo skin contains compounds that can lower uric acid levels in the body. The compounds present in melinjo skin can help inhibit the xanthine oxidase enzyme or uric acid synthesis, which causes an increase in uric acid in the body.

Strengthening memory and sharpening vision, as the various proteins and vitamins present in melinjo skin can help maintain human cognitive function. These nutrients are beneficial in maintaining brain health and preventing cognitive decline. Not only does melinjo skin help improve memory, but it also helps sharpen vision. Nowadays, people spend a lot of time in front of smartphones, laptops, computers, televisions, and other devices. However, the radiation emitted through these screens can have a detrimental effect on the eyes. Melinjo skin has high levels of vitamin A, making it an excellent food to consume to maintain good eye health.

Promoting blood circulation, as melinjo skin contains good fats that can fight bad fats. Bad fats often accumulate in the bloodstream, which can hinder blood circulation. By consuming melinjo skin regularly, the bad fats in the body can be reduced, leading to smoother blood circulation.M

Maintaining muscle health, as melinjo skin has a high protein content that can repair and maintain muscle function. Consuming melinjo skin regularly can help build muscle mass in the body. For those who want to have a strong and muscular body, consuming melinjo skin can help make it a reality.

Preventing anemia, as melinjo skin contains iron that can help form red blood cells in the body. Anemia or a lack of blood is a condition where the body lacks iron, causing symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and loss of spirit.

Maintaining bone and tooth health, as calcium and phosphorus are two essential substances that can help strengthen and maintain bones and teeth. Melinjo skin contains high levels of both of these substances.

Melinjo skin can be processed into various food items to obtain its benefits, such as as a seasoning for seafood, balado melinjo skin, oseng melinjo skin, and others. Although there are many benefits of melinjo skin, one should still be cautious since consuming or using it excessively can lead to side effects.