2026 Update: Summary of Data
This review distinguishes between traditions, cosmetic or food uses, and results that have been truly studied. A study on an isolated extract or ingredient does not automatically demonstrate the efficacy of the finished product.
Precautions: Traditional uses do not prove medical efficacy. Plants and supplements can interact with treatments; seek advice in case of pregnancy, chronic illness, or when taking medication.
References consulted: source 1.
Galangal, a perennial herbaceous plant native to Southeast Asia and Southern China, has a strong, pungent taste described as "warming." The parts used in herbal medicine are the rhizomes (underground stems) of Lesser Galangal (Alpinia officinarum) and Greater Galangal (Alpinia galanga), both from the Zingiberaceae family. Closely related to ginger, galangal can be consumed fresh, dried, ground into a powder, or as an herbal tea.
Discover galangal, a spice with multiple virtues
Unique and exotic flavor: A lemony, slightly pungent, and peppery taste that enhances your dishes.
Easy digestion: Stimulates appetite, aids digestion, and relieves bloating.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Helps fight inflammation and joint pain.
Rich in antioxidants: Protects the body against free radicals and premature aging.
Easy digestion: Stimulates appetite, aids digestion, and relieves bloating.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Helps fight inflammation and joint pain.
Rich in antioxidants: Protects the body against free radicals and premature aging.
Galangal: a culinary and health ally
In cooking:
- Perfect for stews, curries, soups, and salads.
- Enhances the taste of fish, meat, and vegetables.
- Pairs wonderfully with Asian, Thai, and Indian cuisine.
For your health:
- Helps relieve nausea and vomiting.
- Strengthens the immune system.
- Promotes blood circulation.
How to use it?
- Fresh: grated, minced, or in slices.
- Dried: in powder, grains, or pieces.
- Infusion: in herbal tea for its digestive and relaxing benefits.
Galangal: the essential spice for tasty and healthy cooking!
Health benefits of galangal
Digestion:
Galangal is an excellent ally for digestion. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties relieve digestive disorders such as stomach aches, spasms, flatulence, bloating, and vomiting. It also helps treat ulcers and inflammation of the digestive tract.Nausea and vomiting:
Galangal has antiemetic properties that fight against nausea and vomiting. It is effective against motion sickness and morning sickness (in small doses and with a doctor's approval).Fatigue and asthenia:
Galangal is a tonic that combats physical and mental fatigue, weakness, and loss of libido.Traditional Chinese Medicine:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, galangal is used to relieve abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rheumatic pain. It is also valued for its antibacterial and antiviral properties.Immune system:
Galangal is an immune system stimulant thanks to its antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-cough properties. It is an effective natural remedy against winter ailments such as colds, flu, and rhinopharyngitis.Galangal FAQ:
What is galangal?
Galangal is a spice derived from the rhizome of a plant in the ginger family.
Where can I find galangal?
Galangal is available in gourmet grocery stores, organic shops, and the Asian aisles of supermarkets.
How should I store galangal?
Fresh galangal can be kept in the refrigerator for several weeks. Dried galangal can be kept in a cool, dry place for several months.
Are there any contraindications?
Galangal is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is also important to respect the indicated dosages.
Discover tasty and healthy recipes using galangal!
Discover tasty and healthy recipes using galangal!
- Galangal chicken curry
- Thai galangal and lemongrass soup
- Quinoa salad with galangal and vegetables
- Galangal and ginger herbal tea
Galangal: the spice that adds zest to your cooking and your health!
