Galangal Root Powder

Botanical Name: Alpinia officinalis

Common Name:

• English:  Javagalangal, Greater galangal
• Also, known as: Khulanjaana, Kulanjan, Kurachi Vach, Kulinjan Jaanu, Kolinjan, Kulanjan, Kulinjan, Doddarasagadde, Dhoomraasmi, Aratta, Ciffaratta, Kulinlan, Koshta Kulinjan, Mothe Kolanjan, Arattai, Sittarattai, Dumparaastramu, Kulanjana, Sthuulagranthi, Sugandhaa, Ugragandhaa, Malaya Vachaa, Mahaabhari- Vachaa, Perarattai and Chitharathai

Habitat: India & Thailand

Origin: India  

Harvested: Wild

Parts Used: Root                                                                 

General Information:

Galangal is native to Asia. The plant grows to a height of about 4 to 5 feet, has green sword shaped leaves, white flowers, and an aromatic rhizome. Galangal is a leafy perennial and, like ginger but much more robust. During the Middle Ages, galangal was used as an aphrodisiac. Roots are cylindrical and branched in 2 to 10 cm in diameter. The roots look reddish brown externally and orange yellow internally. The nature of the root is hard and fibrous with rough surface. It has also pleasant aroma but, spicy and sweet in taste.

Galangal is widely cultivated in tropical regions. Hot, humid conditions and light soils are required. Propagation is achieved by dividing the rhizomes. Galangal can be harvested anytime during the year. There is another species called “Small Galangal” that species has been used since the Middle Ages in eastern Europe and Russia to flavor teas and alcoholic beverages.

How to use:

Powdered Herb:

There are different ways to use powdered herb.

Food Preparation: You can add powdered herbs to any super food, herbal smoothie, sauces, spreads and even cookies. Also for children, you can mix powdered herbs with honey or glycerin to make a paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help the medicine go down. This method is also known as "Electuaries".

Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, give you assurance that the contents of the capsules are pure herb and no filler or any other products. These capsules can be taken with liquid.

Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.

Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot. 

Precautions: 

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purposes ONLY.

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.