Evidence supporting the use of: Alpinia galangal
For the health condition: Nausea and Vomiting

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alpinia galangal (greater galangal) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Southeast Asia, for addressing digestive complaints such as nausea and vomiting. Historical ethnobotanical records and traditional texts from Ayurveda, Thai, and Indonesian medicine describe galangal rhizome as a “carminative,” used to settle the stomach, dispel gas, and reduce the urge to vomit. Its aromatic and pungent qualities are thought to stimulate digestion and calm gastrointestinal discomfort. However, modern scientific studies directly investigating Alpinia galangal for the treatment or prevention of nausea and vomiting are limited. Most experimental or clinical research has focused on related Zingiberaceae family members, especially ginger (Zingiber officinale), which has established antiemetic effects. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that galangal extracts may possess anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective properties, which could theoretically help with digestive symptoms. Despite traditional endorsements, there is little robust human clinical evidence specifically validating the use of Alpinia galangal for nausea and vomiting. Consequently, its use for this purpose is justified primarily by tradition, with a low to moderate level of supporting evidence.

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