Galangal Root organic

Also known as- Alpinia officinarum, galanga, lesser galangal, Chinese ginger.

Introduction

Galangal is an East Asian tropical shrub with lance-like leaves, iris-like flowers, and reddish brown, woody rhizomes. The name galangal is derived from the Arabic khalanjan, referring to Chinese ginger. Galangal is an important herb in Saudi herbal medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine uses galangal in formulas for the "spleen" to treat digestive problems and health conditions relating to a lack of the earth element, or difficulties in leading a "grounded" life. Various formulas feature galangal for treating "rebellious qi," in which energies that should go down in the body try to come up, as hiccups, belches, burps, and regurgitation.

Constituents

Primarily 1,8-cineol, eugenol, tannins. Also contains careneole, pinene, cadimene, galangin, kaempferide, kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin, and galangol.

Parts Used

The rhizome, washed, dried and cut.

Typical Preparations

Teas and extracts. Added to aloe to reduce aloeÍs harsh laxative effect. The chopped root can be added to culinary dishes and the powdered herb is more convenient for making tinctures, but should be used within 1 year of purchase. May also be taken as a tea, extract or capsule.

Summary

Galangal root is a bitter used to stimulate the release of gastric juices to assist digestion. It relives bloating, constipation, sluggish digestion, and gas. Although galangal root helps the intestine process fats, one of the chemicals in the herb, 5-hydroxy-7-(4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-3-heptanone (HPH), has been shown to lower bloodstream cholesterol in laboratory investigation.

Precautions

Galangal root inhibits the release and action of pancreatic lipase, so donÍt take both galangal and digestive enzymes.

 

For educational purposes only
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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