Galangal is used in Ayurvedic and Tibetan medicine to aid in treatment for rheumatism, bronchitis, flatulence, nausea, disorders of the pancreas, breast and heart. It is reported to help in allaying sea-sickness.Galangal and other gingery spices are used in Asia and in the Middle East in cooking, perfumes, snuffs, and aphrodisiacs. The galangal spices have been used as flavors for condiments, including vinegar, beers, and wines in Russia, and they are used in Germany and elsewhere in teas.
Galangal strengthens and stimulates the flow of energy throughout the body and is helpful during times of exhaustion and despondency.
Family: Burseraceae
Synonyms: Common myrrh, bdellium, guggulu, guggu
Origin: India
Parts Used: oleo gum resin
Aroma Description: warm, earthy, balsamic, bitter, sweet, slightly spicy, pungent, hint of vanilla
Emotional Attributes: strengthening, cleansing/purifying, relaxing, meditation, sensuous, sleep
Cosmetic Uses: used in perfumery, aromatherapy; shampoos, skin creams, lotions, etc.
Culinary Uses: no modern uses known
Medicinal Attributes: astringent, antiseptic, antispasmodic, stimulant and strong painkilling properties. Found in Chinese medical texts since AD600 and extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine. Recently found to contain unique saponins, known as guggulipid, which lower cholesterol and have anti-inflammatory effects for treating arthritis.
Used since early history to treat wounds, bronchial and digestive disorders, gum disease, throat infections, candida, menstrual and circulatory problems, etc.
Element Association: Water
Magical Associations: healing, spirituality, protection
Astrological Association: Cancer, Scorpio, Aquarius, Virgo, Taurus
Planetary Association: Moon
Season: Autumn, Winter
Aromatic Note: Base note
Essential Oil: Yes, steam and hydro distilled. A resinoid is also made through alcohol and/or solvent extraction.
Mixes Well With: benzoin, calamus, cassia, cinnamon, cloves, dammar, dragon's blood, elemi, frankincense, galangal, galbanum, iris root, lavender, myrrh, oakmoss, onycha, opoponax, rose, sandarac, spikenard, star anise, storax, etc.
Medical Disclaimer: Information on this web site is for entertainment purposes only. This information is NOT intended as medical advice or for use as diagnosis or treatment of a health problem or as a substitute for consulting a licensed medical professional.
Available in Cut or Powder form.
Prices
Per ounce (28 grams) $3.50
Per 4 ounces (112 grams) $10.75
Per pound (454 grams) $38.40