Alpinia galangal
Synopsis of alpinia galangal
Alpinia galanga, commonly known as galangal, greater galangal, or Thai ginger, is a perennial herb in the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family, native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. It is closely related to ginger and turmeric but has a distinct aromatic, peppery, and slightly citrus-like flavor. The plant’s rhizome—the underground stem—is the part most commonly used for both culinary and medicinal purposes.
In herbal and natural medicine, Alpinia galanga is valued for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, carminative, antimicrobial, and stimulant properties. Traditionally, it has been used to treat indigestion, gas, bloating, nausea, colds, coughs, sore throat, and arthritis. It promotes gastric secretions and bile flow, making it an effective herb for improving appetite, digestion, and nutrient absorption.
Modern research supports many of its traditional uses, identifying active compounds such as galangin, alpinin, and 1′-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA), which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. Galangal has shown potential in protecting the liver, supporting cardiovascular health, enhancing cognitive function, and even modulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels in early studies. It is also used in formulations for respiratory support and male reproductive health, including libido and stamina.
In natural health circles, Alpinia galanga is often used in tincture, powder, capsule, or tea form, either alone or in combination with other warming, digestive herbs like ginger, cinnamon, or cardamom.
Historical Use:
Alpinia galanga has a rich history in Ayurvedic, Unani, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as Southeast Asian folk medicine. In Ayurveda, it is called Rasna and used to treat rheumatism, bronchitis, asthma, and digestive disorders. It is also considered a rejuvenative herb that balances vata and kapha doshas, particularly in the musculoskeletal and respiratory systems.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), galangal is known as liang jiang and is used to warm the Stomach and Spleen, dispel cold, and relieve pain—especially in conditions like epigastric pain, vomiting, and diarrhea due to cold in the digestive tract. It was also prescribed for cold-induced coughing and wheezing.
In Indonesian and Thai traditional medicine, Alpinia galanga has been used for centuries as both food and medicine. It is a key ingredient in traditional jamu tonics in Indonesia, believed to stimulate circulation, relieve fatigue, and promote vitality. Its culinary and therapeutic uses are often intertwined, with the herb featuring prominently in soups and curries that also serve medicinal purposes.
Today, Alpinia galanga is recognized globally for its multifunctional benefits, combining the aromatic and culinary appeal of ginger with a deeper medicinal history rooted in traditional Southeast Asian and Ayurvedic practices. It continues to bridge the gap between food and medicine, offering support for digestion, inflammation, respiratory health, and overall vitality.
Alpinia galangal is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Belching (Traditional)
Blood Poisoning (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Cholera (Traditional)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Colic (adults) (Traditional)
Colic (children) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Constipation (children) (Traditional)
Cough (damp) (Traditional)
Cough (dry) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Cramps and Spasms (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Dizziness (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Influenza (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Nausea and Vomiting (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
alpinia galangal is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Senses (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
