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 a 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 have been used since the Middle Ages in Eastern Europe and Russia to flavor teas and alcoholic beverages.

How to use:

Decoctions are suitable for roots, barks, large seeds & berries, and other dense material. The simple way to make decoction is, in a saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs to 1 cup of water. Bring the water to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!

Tips:

You can sweeten your herbal decoctions with bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.

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.

Galangal Root Cut