Galangal root is used as a term for different ginger-like plants. Here you can find out more about the effect, use and sustainability of real and greater galangal.
Galangal is the generic term for four plants from the ginger family. The so-called genuine galangal and Thai ginger, also known as greater galangal, are particularly well known. In addition, Chinese ginger and spice lily are also referred to as galangal. In all cases, the root, the so-called rhizome, is mainly used as a medicinal and seasoning.
Galangal Root: True galangal
The true galangal originally comes from the Thai island of Hainan. Today it is also found in other parts of Southeast Asia. It is not only considered an aromatic spice in the kitchen, but also has a long tradition as a medicinal plant. The taste is sharp, intense and slightly bitter and is reminiscent of conventional ginger.
The ingredients that make galangal interesting as a medicinal plant are the essential oils and pungent substances it contains. These ensure that more digestive enzymes and juices are produced. This stimulates the mobility of the digestive tract and relieves cramps. The pungent substances also ensure an appetizing effect. In addition, real galangal has an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect and can be used against fungi. It is even said to inhibit the growth of tumors and ulcers.
In medicinal plants, real galangal is primarily used as a remedy for:
Gastrointestinal complaints (diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain)
loss of appetite
heartburn
hyperacidity of the stomach
You can buy galangal dried and ground as a powder, which you can use to brew a tea. In the case of digestive problems, it is advisable to combine galangal with fennel. You can also buy galangal in pill form or as a tincture or liquid.
Thai Ginger: Greater Galangal
Thai ginger or greater galangal is mainly found in Southeast Asian countries, as well as India, China, Bangladesh and Suriname. This galangal root is also a well-known spice in these countries due to its intense aroma.
In taste and effect it is very similar to real galangal. Thai ginger is also said to help with gastrointestinal complaints such as abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. You can buy it as a powder like real galangal and take it in the form of tea.
In animal studies on rats, Thai ginger has been shown to be effective against stomach ulcers. Another study proves the growth-inhibiting effect on gastric carcinomas. In both cases, however, it is still unclear whether these results can also be extrapolated to humans.
How sustainable is galangal root?
No matter which type of galangal root you choose, they are all native to Asian countries. If they are imported to Germany, they have to travel long distances and therefore have a poor eco-balance.
