Galangal (Alpinia galanga) can be used as a spice, but is also an extremely potent medicinal plant whose consumption provides a variety of health benefits. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and digestive properties are worth highlighting.
Galangal and ginger not only look similar, they are also related. The roots of both plants in particular contain a variety of healthy ingredients, which also makes them interesting for medicinal plant uses.
Not only does it reduce digestive problems
Galangal is particularly known for its ability to reduce digestive problems. Galangal is often made into bitters or stomach tea. But the medicinal plant can do much more than just stimulate digestion.
A current study, for example, reports a circulation-promoting effect and uses against ulcers, bronchitis, eczema, colds and gastritis.
The researchers report that the medicinal plant is used for a variety of health problems and illnesses, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Galangal also has strong antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are known to reduce oxidative stress and protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals.
Ethanolic extract from galangal also has a significant analgesic effect and a special compound in galangal (p-coumaryl diacetate) has an anti-inflammatory effect, the experts add.
Galangal has antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and even anti-cancer properties, which open up various other therapeutic application options in addition to its traditional use.
Protects against fungi and bacteria
Last but not least, the effect of an ethanolic extract of galangal against gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, yeasts and molds can also improve the shelf life of food.
A study on the antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of galangal on the quality properties of beef burgers has shown that galangal can be very useful for controlling microbial spoilage of processed meat.
Galangal for health
The various research studies illustrate the enormous biological potential of galangal to alleviate health problems and treat illnesses. The plant compounds in galangal in particular have pharmacological and therapeutic properties that are extremely beneficial to health. But galangal could also make a contribution to improving the shelf life of food. (as)
