Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Alpinia galangal, commonly known as galangal, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Southeast Asian folk medicine. In these traditions, galangal is frequently used as a remedy to stimulate appetite, particularly in cases of appetite deficiency or digestive weakness. The rhizome is believed to have warming and carminative properties, which are thought to enhance digestive fire (known as "Agni" in Ayurveda) and promote the secretion of digestive enzymes. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys document its use as an appetite stimulant and digestive aid, often administered as part of herbal formulations or decoctions.

While there is ample traditional support for its use, scientific studies specifically evaluating galangal’s effects on appetite are limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that galangal extracts may have gastroprotective and pro-digestive effects, which could indirectly support appetite, but high-quality human clinical trials are lacking. Thus, the evidence rating is moderate (3), primarily rooted in tradition rather than robust scientific validation. Overall, galangal’s use for appetite deficiency is well-established in traditional practices, but more rigorous research is needed to substantiate these claims in a modern clinical context.

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Nature's Sunshine Bronchial Formula (Ayurvedic)
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Nature's Sunshine Respiratory System (30 Day Program)
Nature's Sunshine Spleen Activator (Chinese)
Nature's Sunshine Spleen Activator TCM