Galangal essential oil is extracted from the roots of the Galangal plant from the steam distillation method which belongs to the family Zingiberaceae and genus Alpinia. It has a spicy and bitter taste. This herb is native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. It is used for medicinal purposs in India and the Middle East. Galangal is related to ginger having similar uses and qualities. Though it is non-irritant and non-toxic, it might cause sensitization in some people. It is used as a stimulant in natural medicine. It possesses antispasmodic and antibacterial properties.
Galangal Root essential oil is extracted from the stem of a plant in the ginger family, which also includes Turmeric and Cardamom. Galangal is best known as a popular culinary seasoning in many Asian cuisines where it adds heavenly flavor and aroma to Thai and Vietnamese soups and other foods. This aromatic botanic is closely related to ginger, being slightly larger and woodier.
Galangal Root juice is combined with lime and other herbs in Southeast Asia to make a tonic beverage for general wellness support. Like ginger and other herbs in the Zingiberaceae family, it is often used in culinary dishes for healthy digestion. The essential oil is pungent and useful in massage blends where it is often so employed in Southeast Asia.
Biochemical Composition Of Galangal
Most sub-species of galangal have good amounts of flavonoids. Galangin, alpinin, kaempferol, kaempferide, pinene, pineal, chavicol, methyl cinnamate, hydroxycinnamaldehyde, isorhamnetin, camphene, myrcene, p-cymene, borneol, terpineol, 4-terpineol, fenchyl acetate, bornyl acetate, humulene, and zerumbone are a few identified ones (14).
The leaf oil contains myrcene, ocimene, pinene, borneol, caryophyllene, and bisabolene. The essential oil from the galangal flower has a-pinene, sabinene, limonene, phellandrene, 1,8-cineole, linalool, terpineol-4-ol, a-terpineol, methyl eugenol, patchouli, caracol, a-farnesene, nerolidol, bisabolol, and benzyl benzoate (14).
The galangal fruits contain acetyl eugenol acetate and 1′-acetoxychavicol acetate. The seed contains caryophyllene oxide, caryophyllene, pentadecane, 7-heptadecane, and fatty acid methyl esters (13).
It is because of these terpinols and esters in the essential oils that galangal is used as a perfume or freshener in India and the Middle Eastern countries. As a bonus, each serving of galangal contains 45 calories and 2 g of dietary fiber. It is also a natural source of sodium, iron, and vitamins A and C (almost like ginger).
That, indeed, is a powerful biochemical profile. No wonder the Chinese obsessed over galangal and made many recipes with it! Yes, that’s right. Several cuisines incorporate galangal in their delicacies. Here’s a quick and simple recipe for you.
Homeopathic Properties of Galangal Essential Oil
- Aperitif
- Analgesic
- Antiasthmatic
- Antibacterial
- Antiseptic
- Antispasmodic
- Anticatarrh
- Aphrodisiac
- Balsamic
- Bronchodilator
- Cardiotonic
- Carminative
- Mucolytic
- Stomachic
Health Benefits of Galangal essential oil
- It helps to treat fatigue.
- It enhances circulation and assists joint and muscle stiffness.
- It is used as a cure for digestion, congestion, skin problems, and cholera.
- This oil is a treatment for dyspepsia, flatulence, motion sickness, vomiting, travel sickness, and colic.
- It helps to treat rheumatoid arthritis and arthritis.
- It is useful for treating respiratory problems such as catarrh, bronchitis, colds, asthma, and flu.
- It assists in the digestion of intestinal fats.
- It is also useful for tinea versicolor and gall bladder infections.
- It enhances the mood if diffused or added to the hot bath.
- It is used in aromatherapy by adding 2 to 3 drops to the hot bath that helps to relax muscles.
- For better sleep, diffuse it at night.
Galangal Essential Oil Uses
- Galangal Essential Oil as Aid in Digestion. People suffering from various digestive issues can find relief with this essential oil. It can treat loss of bowel movement, gastritis, acid reflux, and vomiting.
- Galangal Essential Oil as Treatment Against Major Viruses. Studies have shown that galangal has inhibitory effects on serious viruses that have threatened the world like anthrax. Common viruses like streptococcus and staphylococcus can also be killed with the help of this essential oil.
- Galangal Essential Oil as Aid in Stopping Vomiting. Whether you are suffering from morning sickness due to pregnancy or motion sickness because of long-distance trips, you can simply smell this essential oil via inhalers and you will feel better.
- Galangal Essential Oil as Pain Reliever. In the Middle East, there is a tradition of using this essential oil to fight arthritis and muscle pains.
- Galangal Essential Oil as Sexual Stimulant. In the past, galangal was really popular as it was known to treat sex-related problems including lack of libido, erectile dysfunction, and poor sexual performance. Until now, it is still effective in treating these issues.
- Galangal Essential Oil as Mood Enhancer. The essential oil has calming effects. It means that when you are stressed out or you are in a bad mood, you will start feeling better.
- Galangal Essential Oil as a Cure for Insomnia. If you have a hard time sleeping or you don’t have quality sleep, you need to use this essential oil. You can sleep faster and longer.
Top 21Health Benefits of Galangal Raw
1. It Helps Fight Inflammation
In addition to helping to ward off premature aging, the anti-inflammatory power of galangal is tied to calming inflammation throughout the body. The anti-inflammatory gingerols play a role in inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which leads some experts to believe that it may help arthritic patients.
A 2014 study found that galanin, a flavonol in lesser galangal can elicit an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting ERK and NF-κB-p65 phosphorylation. Inflammation is common pathogenesis of many chronic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory skin conditions, and bowel disease,
2. Strengthens Immune System
Galangal delivers good amounts of Vitamin C and more than a dozen antioxidants including alpine and galanin, making it an immunity booster. What’s more, research showed that 1′S-1′-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA) isolated from the rhizomes of Alpinia galangal inhibits replication of HIV-1.
3. It increases Sperm Count and Motility
In the Middle East, Galangal is used as an aphrodisiac, and South-East Asians often use Galangal in menstrual disorder treatments. More research on this topic is needed, but a 2014 study revealed that ethanolic extract of A. galanga significantly increased rat spermatogenesis.
Additionally, it has been shown that a daily supplement of pomegranate juice and galangal root increases sperm motility three-fold.
4. Protects Against Cancer
Galangal is a member of the Zingiberaceae family, which also includes ginger, turmeric, and cardamom. This group of plants contains phytochemicals linked to cancer prevention—thanks to their antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties. Galanin, a flavonoid found in galangal, has been shown to combat chemical genotoxicity. Galangin has also been linked to apoptosis, the self-destruct program the body uses to kill off dysfunctional cells. A study by Ha TK et al found that galanin induces apoptosis of HCT-15 and HT-29 human colon cancer cells.
Scientists say galangal root is effective against gastric, skin, pancreatic, breast, and liver cancers. According to a 2014 study, an aqueous extract of Alpinia galangal possesses an anti-proliferative effect on the human gastric tumor (AGS) and L929 cell lines.
If that’s true, people don’t have to endure the uncomfortable side effects of chemo in the future.
5. Galangal is a Natural Antimicrobial
Studies show that the essential oils derived from dried and fresh galangal rhizomes can inhibit bacteria, yeast, fungi, and parasites. Terpinene-4-ol, one of the monoterpenes in the galangal essential oil, possesses antimicrobial activity against Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
Acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA) in galangal is active against Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Clostridium perfringens. Compared to turmeric and ginger, galangal is most effective against Staphylococcus aureus.
Alpinia galangal also inhibits a broad spectrum of fungi including Aspergillus niger, Trichophyton longifusus, Colletotrichum musae, Fusarium oxysporum, and Trichophyton rubrum.
6. Galangal is Good For Skin
We know that antioxidants support skin health, but galangal may actually help turn back the clock when it comes to skin aging. In an in vivo study published in Cosmetics and Toiletries, scientists state that galangal extract boosts hyaluronic acid production. Surprisingly, the participants reported a reduction in smile lines, increased skin radiance, and skin density.
Galangal also soothes away eczema, burn and itchiness, and fungal infections. With a healthy dose of vitamin C, galangal helps skin rejuvenation as well. Nice perk for spice with so many additional benefits!
7. Galangal Supports Digestive Health
The fiber in galangal – two grams per hundred gram – supports good gut health and bowel regularity. Galangal reduces the salivary and digestive acid secretion thereby soothing the GI tract. This is especially beneficial for ulcerous patients.
In Ayurvedic medicine and other Asian alternative medicine, galangal was used to help with gas, cramping, constipation, and even stop hiccups. Indonesians consume freshly grated galangal with salt on an empty stomach to ease digestive issues.
8. It’s Linked to Brain Health
Some of the nutrients and ACA in galangal have been linked to a healthy brain and better cognition, plus protection against depression. Evidence also shows that by reducing beta-amyloid plaque deposition in the brain, this spice can slow or prevent the onset of neurodegenerative disease. Animal research has also confirmed Alpinia galangal’s anti- anti-amnesic effect.
Aim to make it a staple if you wish to hold back your memories or to prevent cognitive decline.
9. May Help Reduce Blood Cholesterol Levels
We’ve long known that increased cholesterol levels raise the risk of nearly every chronic disease, including heart attack, peripheral artery disease, and stroke. Kaempferol, quercetin, and galanin, the primary flavonoids in galangal, can prevent cholesterol spikes. Research also shows that these compounds can inhibit fatty-acid synthase, thereby reducing blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
10. Fights Respiratory Ailments
Galangal has been used for thousands of years as a natural treatment for cold, cough, and sore throat around Asia. Galangal tea aids in expanding the lungs and loosening up phlegm thanks to its expectorant properties. The antispasmodic effect of the spice reduces the sputum, as well as dilates the bronchioles. Galangal extract also helps to control and soothe asthma and acute respiratory distress syndrome thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect.
Traditional medical practitioners suggest it to treat respiratory ailments, steep freshly grated galangal root in hot water, twice or thrice a day.
11. It Can Boost Cardiac Health
Galangal protects your heart in several ways. The spice has been shown to improve cardiac circulation, decrease LDL cholesterols and triglycerides, as well as anti-inflammatory. Studies show that galangal can reduce cardiac contractions and protect from fainting and heart attack. Dietary fiber reduces the risk of heart disease by binding to circulating cholesterol and removing it from the system. Galangal has a good amount of fiber, making it a heart-friendly spice.
12. A Must-have in Your Beauty Arsenal too
Galangal is a powerhouse of antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It even comes with antiseptic properties that mean you’ve got your one-stop solution for everything from dry scalp, dandruff, hair thinning, split ends, and more. Galangal juice (or mask) works like magic for promoting blood circulation on the scalp.
Galangal root is a must-have in your beauty regimen. Being a powerful antiseptic, it gets under the skin to kill acne-causing bacteria. And the best part is, it does it without irritating the skin.
Antioxidants in the root tones the skin fights off lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and more. In folk medicine, galangal was used to soothe and hasten burn wounds. Apply grated galangal, honey, and lime juice mix regularly for fresh, youthful skin.
13. May Help With Nausea
Galangal has long been a popular remedy for nausea, which often results from morning sickness, motion sickness, and seasickness. In addition to the traditional use for nausea, modern science also backs up these claims.
More specifically, evidence points to gingerol, the active ingredient in galangal and other Zingiberaceae members. An animal model showed that gingerol can increase gastrointestinal transportation and relax the muscles, which can relieve nausea and vomiting.
14. May Possess Antidiabetic Properties
According to a 2015 animal study, methanolic extracts of galangal showed antidiabetic potential. Aerial parts of galangal could stimulate the regeneration of insulin-secreting beta-cells in the pancreas. Administering galangal extracts to diabetic rats lowered cholesterol and triglyceride levels, improved lipid metabolism and prevented diabetic complications (3).
Galangal extract was found to inhibit carbohydrate metabolism, minimizing the post-meal blood glucose spikes. The glucose-controlling activity was on par with synthetic antidiabetic drugs (4).
Due to its antioxidant activity, this herbal medicine can protect your liver and pancreas from oxidative stress and damage. The polyphenols, alkaloids, triterpenes, steroids, and carbohydrates in galangal are proposed to be responsible for this activity (3).
However, more research is required in this area to understand these benefits on humans.
15. Might Possess Antiproliferative Effects
The aqueous extract of Alpinia galangal can inhibit the proliferation of human gastric tumor cell lines. The galangal rhizome (root) contains two cytotoxic compounds, namely, acetoxy-chavicol acetate and p-coumaryl alcohol-O-methyl ether, that are known to act against cancer cells (5).
Galangal extracts showed anticancer effects on melanoma (skin) cells, preventing skin cancer (5).
The cytotoxic compounds in this Chinese herb can induce glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity in the liver cells. GST eliminates mutagenic compounds and free radicals, thus preventing cancerous changes (6). However, more research is needed to understand the molecular mechanisms and anticancer effects of this medicinal root.
16. May Help To Treat Arthritis
Galangal rhizomes contain flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, and several phenolic compounds. These phytochemicals showed potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in animal studies (7).
Galangin down-regulates the expression of genes that produce pro-inflammatory compounds like cytokines and interleukins (8).
As galangal extracts may inhibit COX-1 and 2 and lipoxygenase pathways, they could be used to manage arthritis, edema, inflammatory bowel disease, and other inflammatory disorders (9), (10).
17. May Possess Antimicrobial Properties
Researchers claim that the essential oils from dried and fresh galangal rhizomes can eliminate bacteria, yeast, fungi, and parasites. Terpinene-4-ol, one of the monoterpenes in the essential oil derived from fresh galangal rhizome, possesses antimicrobial activity against Trichophyton mentagrophytes (11).
Acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA), a compound isolated from the extract of dried rhizomes, is active against certain dermatophyte (skin-infesting) bacterial species. Among turmeric and ginger, galangal has the most potent inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus (11).
Alpinia galanga is also a broad-spectrum fungicide. It can inhibit fungi and yeast, such as Aspergillus niger, Trichophyton longifusus, Colletotrichum musae, Fusarium oxysporum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum, and Rhizopus stolonifer (12).
18. May Boost Premature Ejaculation
Unlike other aphrodisiacs or fertility supplements, galangal is safe and non-toxic. Rat studies showed that 56 days of treatment with galangal rhizome improved spermatogenesis and related parameters (13).
The sperm count and mobility increased after this treatment. The increase in sperm density and motility in cauda epididymis (the storage site for mature sperm) can affect fertilization (13).
Galangal influences protein production via the expression of related genes involved in spermatogenesis. It could, hence, be used in drugs to promote male fertility (13). Clinical data can elucidate the safety of this herbal extract in the future.
19. Boost circulation of the blood
Galangal essential oil is not commonly used in Aromatherapy but is also useful in massage blends to boost the circulation of the blood and lift spirits. Just add 1-2% of galangal essential oil to water and spray to your feet or add a couple of drops with jojoba oil massage to your feet to boost feet circulation. The Alpinia galangal essential oil showed antimicrobial activity against all bacteria. It is also regarded as a stimulating oil with anti-fungal properties. It is used as a body deodorizer and foot odor remedy. Make sure that the essential oil does not come into direct contact with the skin.
20. Skin benefits
Galangal has been used as an effective skincare ingredient. The essential oil of this herb, when applied topically is found to be beneficial for the treatment of several skin disorders, eczema, or ringworm. Galangal is a storehouse of numerous potent antioxidants that fight off the free radicals that cause oxidative stress to the cells. It consists of 40 antioxidants that help in protecting the skin against aging. Just add a couple of drops to a base oil such as coconut oil, jojoba oil and apply to the skin.
21. Natural repellent
Alpinia galanga was found to exhibit insecticidal and repellent activity. The research found that among main compounds, α-terpineol and eucalyptol showed the stronger contact and fumigant toxicity against the insecticidal properties of the essential oil can be attributed to the synergistic effects of its diverse major and minor active components. The repellent had initially worked for 20 minutes to 4 hours.
How To Cook With Galangal Root
It doesn’t take a lot of preparation to cook with galangal root.
The Jungle Thai Curry – With Galangal And Mushroom
What You Need
- Coconut milk: 2 cps
- Galangal: 1, ½-inch piece, peeled and sliced
- Kaffir lime leaves: 3, chopped or torn
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Fresh mushrooms: ⅓ pound, sliced
- Thai chili peppers: 5, chopped
- Fresh lime juice: ¼ cup
- Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Boiling pot: medium-large
Let’s Make It!
- Add coconut milk and galangal in the boiling pot. Bring it to a boil.
- Add the kaffir lime leaves and salt.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add mushrooms to the mixture and cook until soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add the lime juice and fish sauce to the mixture. Stir well.
- Transfer the contents to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with the Thai chilies.
- Serve hot with some fresh and fragrant jasmine rice and tapioca crisps.
Gin hi a-ròi! (Bon appetit!)
South-east Asian and Asian cooking offers everything on a platter that soothes your body during every meal.
If you do not like the taste of galangal in your meals, you can substitute it with ginger. Remember, ginger is a stronger spice than galangal. For every serving of galangal, 3/4th of ginger would do.
Alternatively, you can buy galangal supplements in the form of oil or capsules.
Precautions And Side Effects Of Galangal
Galangal has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. This root is typically safe when it is consumed in the amounts likely found in foods (1).
Animal studies found that doses of 2,000 mg per kg of body weight resulted in serious side effects, including coma, diarrhea, excessive urination, lack of appetite, a drop in energy levels, and death (15). These side effects were absent at considerably smaller dosages of 300 mg per kg of body weight.
- Children: It is highly advised not to let children take this essential oil whether on the skin or through ingestion just to be safe.
- Pregnancy risk: Pregnant women are also not supposed to use the essential oil as they are more sensitive. However, it can be used in small doses to fight morning sickness.
- Possible skin irritation: It is recommended to apply it on certain portions of the skin first before using in full to avoid possible allergies.
- Ulcer. People who suffer from ulcer must avoid using this essential oil as it induces the secretion of gastric acid
In A Nutshel
Galangal is a refreshing and worthy addition to your spice rack. Almost every part of the plant can be used for cooking or healing.
Its juice and essential oil, like that of ginger, may help in managing digestive issues, cold, cough, diabetes, and hypertension. Galangal root can add flavor and anti-inflammatory compounds to your dishes and provide many health benefits. It helps in boosting male fertility and may potentially help with the treatment of certain forms of cancer. You can try substituting ginger with galangal in your herbal tea. Make sure to consult a doctor before including this spice in your food preparations. It should not be applied directly to the skin. Dilute it with a carrier oil to use it topically. Breastfeeding, pregnant women, or people with sores and open wounds should not use it.
How to Eat
This oil is used in Thai and Indian curries and soups.
RECIPE IDEAS
Pure Essential Oil Blends
- 60 drops Galangal
- 55 drops Lavender
- 35 drops Violet Leaf
- 30 drops Amyris
- 20 drops Rosewood
Mix together & bottle
- 55 drops Galangal
- 50 drops Sandalwood
- 40 drops Cananga
- 35 drops Clementine
- 20 drops Lime
Mix together & bottle
(can be used for all of the above applications)
Other Facts
- It combines well with Dactylis, cardamom, black pepper, carnation, cedarwood, cascarilla, chamomile, clove, cinnamon, coriander, cypress, cubeb, elemi, frankincense, fennel seed, geranium, grains of paradise, ginger, guaiac wood, ho leaf, hinoki root, ho wood, labdanum, juniper berry, laurel leaf, lovage, lavender, marjoram, mace, mimosa, opoponax, myrtle, parsley seed, palmarosa, patchouli, pimento berry, rose, pine, rosewood, snakeroot, sandalwood, spikenard, tansy, sugandha kokila berry, tarragon, vetiver, turmeric, and zedoary.
- This essential oil is used in skincare products such as lotions and soaps as well as perfumes.
- It is mixed with other scents or essential oil to make it taste better or smell better just in case you are not a fan of its woody and bitter taste.
- Despite its strong smell, it is still used in many soaps and cosmetic products. It is mostly because of the benefits that come with it especially in regards to skin protection.
- Galangal capsules as food supplements are also available. Check with your doctor if you can use it internally.
- Although it originated in Europe and became popular in China, you can find more of this herb now in Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
- You might mistake galangal for ginger at first look because the two are actually closely related. You may use ginger essential oil as an alternative if you want to get the same benefit as galangal essential oil.
- The essential oil has cooling effects on the body. However, it is advised not to use close to the eyes to avoid irritation.
- After using the oil on the skin and irritation takes place, it must be stopped right away.
From Where To Buy
- Women-owned and family-operated since 2009, we personally source each essential oil and raw ingredient to ensure affordable prices without compromising quality. Voted the #1 Non-MLM essential oil company, it's our pleasure to be your one-stop shop for all things aromatherapy.
- As the leader in the essential oils industry, we value safety, quality and education in offering only the best aromatherapy products. For this reason, we test every batch of essential oils and provide GC/MS reports to our customers to ensure each oil’s therapeutic value and purity.
- Each of our products is expertly formulated and hand-poured, including over 200 essential oils and synergy blends. We also offer a wide array of natural home and body products that are kind to the environment. Have a question about essential oils? Our certified aromatherapists are happy to lend a hand in your EO journey!
or
- Highest Quality Pure & Natural Galangal Essential Oil - Our Galangal Oil is 100% pure, undiluted, all-natural, and therapeutic grade. Every drop of this Galangal essential oil is steam-extracted right from the source without any additives or harmful chemicals.
- Gc-ms Tested for Purity & Dilution - Every batch of our galangal essential oil is tested using a a type of testing called "gcms". This ensures the essential oil's authenticity and purity. These test results are publicly available on the manufacturers website.
- Bottled in a 60ml Glass Bottle with Built-In Eyedropper - All of our essential oils are bottled in an amber glass bottle right here in the USA. It also has a built in Euro style eyedropper for easy pouring and application.
- Essential Oils are Used for a Variety of Uses & Applications - Simply add a few drops to your essential oil diffuser or humidifier for a wonderful aromatherapy experience. For other uses other than aromatherapy we recommend always diluting with a carrier oil.
- Healing Solutions Only Offers the Highest Quality Essential Oils Available - Healing Solutions is an American based company that scours the globe to find the finest, freshest essential oils available. If at any point you're unhappy with one of our products, please contact us and we'd be happy to make things right!
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