Botanical Overview
Alpinia officinarum, commonly known as Lesser Galangal or simply Galangal, belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. The medicinal part used is primarily the rhizome. Native to Southeast Asia, including China and India, it has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems.
Energetics
The plant exhibits a warming and drying nature with pungent and bitter tastes. It is considered ascending in directionality and tonifying in action, particularly affecting the qi.
Primary Actions
- Carminative
- Digestive stimulant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Anti-emetic
- Spasmolytic
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Gas and bloating
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory infections
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Gastrointestinal spasms
- Common cold
- Upper respiratory tract infections
TCM
- Epigastric pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Coldness in the stomach
Syndromes
- Spleen and Stomach cold syndrome
- Qi stagnation
- Damp-cold accumulation
Ayurveda
- Digestive sluggishness
- Vata imbalance
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
Syndromes
- Ama (toxicity)
- Agni (digestive fire) weakening
- Kapha disorders with coldness
Unani
- Gastritis
- Indigestion
- Cold-related digestive issues
Syndromes
- Safra imbalance
- Phlegm accumulation
- Cold temperament indigestion
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include flavonoids, essential oils, galangin, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, contributing to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestive properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Rhizome powder 1–3 g per day
- Decoction of 2–5 g in 150 ml water, 1–2 times daily
- Tincture 1:5 at 40% ethanol, 2–5 ml 1–3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally regarded as safe in traditional doses. Use caution during pregnancy due to limited safety data. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur. Avoid in individuals allergic to plants of the ginger family.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified for Alpinia officinarum.
Selected References
- Alpinia officinarum (Lesser Galangal), Plants For A Future
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 3 (1999)
- Chinese Medicinal Herbology and Pharmacology, Chen & Chen (2004)
- Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants, Warrier (2005)
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, NCBI (2011)