Evidence supporting the use of: Alpinia galangal
For the health condition: Jaundice (adults)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Alpinia galangal (greater galangal) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Southeast Asian folk medicine. In these traditions, the rhizome is used for various digestive and liver-related ailments, including jaundice. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys often mention Alpinia galangal as part of polyherbal formulations aimed at “cleansing the liver,” improving bile flow, or treating “yellowing of the eyes and skin”—symptoms consistent with jaundice. However, scientific validation for its efficacy in treating jaundice specifically is limited. While some preclinical studies indicate that extracts of Alpinia galangal may have hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, these studies are mostly conducted in animal models or in vitro. There are few, if any, robust clinical trials in humans directly evaluating its use for adult jaundice. Thus, its use for jaundice is primarily justified by traditional practice, and the supporting evidence is weak by modern standards.

In summary, Alpinia galangal is traditionally used for liver ailments including jaundice, but scientific validation for its effectiveness in treating jaundice in adults is lacking. The evidence rating reflects the existence of traditional use with limited preclinical support, but no strong clinical data.

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