Herbs - Galangal (Alpinia officinarum).

What Is It?

Also known as colic root or Chinese ginger, this is a reed-like plant that is native to south east China, especially in the island of Hainan. It is now cultivated in China, Indonesia, Thailand and Japan. It is closely related to ginger (Zingiber officinale) and to the large Galanga (Galanga officinalis). The root and rhizome are used in herbal medicine, but also may be used as a spice in curries.

Action

It contains a volatile oil and a compound called galangol. This herb is carminative (wind relieving), stimulant, stomach tonic, anti-emetic (reduces nausea) diaphoretic, anti-fungal and antiseptic.

Uses

Historically it has been used to treat a number of conditions including:

• Candida infections
• Colic
• Flatulence
• Indigestion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Travel sickness
• Mouth ulcers of the gums

Other information

This herb is quite difficult to buy, but if you are able to get the rhizome it can be used to make tea and taken up to three times per day. A qualified herbalist will be able to make other preparations.

Cautions

• The safety of this herb during pregnancy and lactation has not been sufficiently studied and is therefore best avoided.



• At the time of writing there are no well-known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications from galangal.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.