The delicious galanghal

Galanghal, Alpinia galanga, is a tropical member of the ginger family that has been turning up in some herbal products recently. It is native to China and it has been in use since 500AD in both TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Ayurveda. It is one of the herbs that has been found to support the brain and mental energy. I know when I skip it, my daughter will give me a hiding in a board game.

This is one to grow in my nurtury as it needs similar growing conditions to ginger (damp and warm). My lovely friend gifted me some rhizomes and says she uses it much as ginger in cooking (freeze then grate it into dishes).

What actions does this delicious herb have? There have been some studies on the effects although it hasn't been as studied as ginger.

🌱Anti-inflammatory and may especially be indicated for lung support

🌱Antimicrobial and antifungal

🌱Antioxidant effects

There have been several studies on obese, diabetic or hypertensive rats which have shown to have a positive influence on the cardivascular system, blood sugar, fluid retention and body weight.

I imagine it's more the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that have a positive infuence on brain health.

Photo credit: Creative Commons Anton Winyaro