Galangal is a root that resembles turmeric and ginger. Not only do they look alike, but their usage is similar as well. You can eat a galangal raw or cooked just as you do for ginger and turmeric. This spice typically grows in the South Asian region.

From medicinal to culinary, there are plenty of benefits of galangal. This spice can cure certain ailments, infections, and inflammation, improve sperm count, and even help fight some types of cancer. So let's find out more about this exotic spice.

Previously, galangal was used as a medicine to treat many diseases, and even today, these are supported by modern scientific studies. In addition, it is an essential ingredient in Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, and Malaysian cuisines. Some of the benefits of this exotic spice are as follows:

1. Prevents Common Cold

Eating galangal improves blood circulation; hence, fresh antioxidants flow. These prevent vital toxin build-up, which eventually helps fight health issues like the common cold, allergies, asthma, and many more. Galangal is also a great source of Vitamin C that can boost your body’s defense mechanisms.

2. Fights Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of Galangal are due to the richness of vitamin C. In addition, there exist certain amino acids that help build healthy skin. Thus, suppressing any skin inflammation, redness, or swelling. Likewise, the flavonoid in galangal removes acne marks, scars, and dark spots.

3. Boosts Immune System

One of the prominent health benefits of galangal is its immunity booster capability. Galangal can uplift immunity with abundant vitamin C content and other important antioxidants. When someone falls sick and the organs fail to perform optimally, consuming galangal in such situations through curries and soup can restore those essential nutrients.

4. Cures Constipation

To maintain a healthy and fully functioning kidney, it is necessary to filter out the toxic waste that we accumulate after digestion. This also relieves intestinal conditions like constipation. Constipation is one of the most common ailments. Galangal is rich in dietary fibres, which ensure regular bowel movements.

5. Strengthens Bone

Galangal also contains calcium; thus, one can intensify bone density by ingesting galangal. Those who find obstructions to having flexible body movements can try incorporating galangal into their diet. Moreover, the potassium content in this spice also compliments bone health.

6. Help Recover Joint Pain

Since galangal is highly effective in curing inflammation, it can reduce bone and muscle pain. In addition, the root also contains bone-strengthening minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Therefore, those who develop arthritis, gout, osteoporosis, or suffer from fractures can try this magical herb.

7. Help in Treating Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

As mentioned above, galangal has anti-inflammatory properties, which are conferred by vitamin C. So, this indicates that galangal can reduce swelling in the bladder caused by UTIs. Moreover, the antioxidants present in the spice can help remove free radicals and other bacteria.

8. Cures Anaemia

One of the many well-known benefits of galangal includes a cure for anaemia. This condition can be caused due to deficiency of iron. Someone with this disorder has inadequate red blood cells to transport nutrients and Oxygen to all cells and tissues. Iron absorption from digested food is performed by vitamin C, which can be acquired from galangal.

9. Anti-Ageing Benefits

When there were no fancy anti-ageing creams or serums, galangal was used to get the same skin benefits. This is because it contains spermidine, a vital agent in reducing signs of ageing. You can try having a glass of galangal tea to boost collagen production, which maintains the elasticity and firmness of the skin.

10. Cure Heart Ailments

Cardiac ailments like irregular heartbeats and palpitations, high blood pressure, chest pain, or coronary disease are very common these days. However, there is an organic treatment for these conditions. It can also eliminate difficulties related to the heart while performing any day-to-day activities.

11. Acts as a Remedy for Fever

It is not just the galangal roots, but its leaves also have properties that can reduce body temperature during fever. When released by rubbing on a person's body, the phytonutrients can induce instant relief by minimising body temperature and fatigue. Another benefit of consuming galangal during such situations is that it distributes excess water and salt from the body by keeping the electrolyte balanced.

12. Fights Jaundice

The galangal leaves contain compounds like polyphenols, tannins, and quercetin. These substances can improve the immune system and liver functioning. In addition, the roots contain an immense quantity of vitamin C, which benefits the body's defense system. So, those suffering from ailments like jaundice can add galangal to their diet to support modern medicines.

13. Prevent Gum Damage

Another benefit of this spice is to protect oral health. Improper nutrition coupled with the carelessness of oral hygiene can cause gum damage. Vitamin C deficiency is the major cause of such a condition. So, adding galangal to your diet is recommended and curing any such oral health issues.

14. Regulates Thyroid

The thyroid hormone can fluctuate at times, and it results in hyperthyroidism when it is out of range. Like many other nutrients, galangal contains a higher amount of iodine that can balance the spiked thyroid hormones. Moreover, zinc compounds in this root facilitate the enzyme function for thyroid concentrations.

15. Regulates Blood Cholesterol

The root of the galangal contains an abundance of pectin; these substances can clear the unwanted deposits in the arteries. Another function of this component is monitoring the LDL and HDL cholesterol levels. So, those with huge irregularities in cholesterol levels can try incorporating galangal into their diet. This is also one of the popularly known benefits of galangal.

16. Treatment for Hair Loss

Carotene content in galangal can promote hair strong and smoother hair growth. You can make a paste of galangal extracts and apply them if you face severe hair damage and hair fall. The plant compounds in this root enhance blood circulation and nerve functioning of the scalp. This eventually results in rapid hair growth.

17. Treats Insomnia

The Vitamin B6 content in galangal is good for maintaining brain functions. It also allows the unobstructed condition of nerve impulses. Therefore, in conditions of disturbed sleep or insomnia, having a glass of galangal tea can lessen the neurotransmitter activities and promote proper sleep.

18. Prevents Cancerous Toxins

Galangal belongs to the Zingiberaceae family; these plant compounds contain anti-carcinogenic properties. Additionally, the Galangin flavonoids in this root can successfully fight against genotoxicity. Further studies have shown that Galangin is linked with the body's self-destruct program that kills dysfunctional cells. Thus, the flavonoid is effective against the skin, breast, pancreatic, and liver cancers.

19. Help Recover Nausea

People who suffer from motion or sea sickness and women going through morning sickness can try galangal water for relief. Although this is a popular traditional belief, modern sciences have supported this notion. If we describe this more scientifically, gingerol and other Zingiberaceae promote gastrointestinal movement and relax the muscles involved in this process, thus relieving nausea or vomiting.

20. Increases Sperm Count

Mostly in the Middle East, this root is used as an aphrodisiac. Although not much research has been conducted on this subject, one study revealed that the ethanolic extraction in galangal had shown impressive results in increasing sperm count in an animal study.

Galangal is a fragrant rhizome used in Southeast Asian cuisine for its unique, spicy flavour. There are many uses of galangal, some of which are listed below:

• Grate some galangal roots in soups and curries.
• Mince or add thin slices of this root and mix it with your regular stir-fried vegetables.
• Galangal spice powder can spice up winter soups.
•  Blend a small amount into smoothies for an aromatic twist.
•  Utilise galangal oil in aromatherapy for its invigorating scent.
• Use in homemade skin and hair care products for its medicinal properties.

Galangal, also known as Haritaki or Terminalia chebula, is a fruit with a long history of use in traditional medicine. It is valued for its diverse health benefits and rich nutritional profile.

There is very little research on galangal's side effects. However, one animal study shows that 2000 mg per kg of body weight resulted in the following conditions:

Lack of Energy

Numerous factors, including chronic fatigue syndrome, anaemia, thyroid disorders, poor sleep quality, nutritional deficiencies, or mental health issues like depression or anxiety can be caused due to Galangal use.

Loss of Appetite

This may occur due to various reasons such as infections, gastrointestinal disorders, hormonal imbalances, medication side effects, psychological conditions like depression or stress, or chronic diseases.

Immoderate Urination

Frequent urination, or the need to urinate excessively, can be a sign of conditions such as diabetes mellitus, urinary tract infections, bladder issues, or certain medications. It is characterised by the need to urinate more often than usual.

Diarrhoea

This symptom can result from infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), food intolerances, medications, stress, or gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Coma and Even Death

These are severe symptoms indicating critical health issues. A coma is a prolonged state of unconsciousness that head injuries, stroke, severe infections, metabolic disturbances, or poisoning can cause.

The only preventive method to follow while using galangal is its dosages. If it is consumed at 300 mg per kg, there will be no health issues. On the contrary, if the dosage is exceeded 2000 mg per kg, it can cause serious threats to one's health. Following are several precautions that you must take while consuming Galangal:

Galangal has numerous advantages, but it can adversely affect certain conditions. For example

• If there is any fungal infection, you must refrain from using galangal.
• Likewise, those struggling with a chronic diabetic situation must not use galangal.
• Those with underlying health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before using galangal to avoid potential interactions or side effects.
• Direct contact with galangal or its essential oil may cause irritation or sensitivity, so use caution if you have sensitive skin.
• Individuals who are allergic to plants in the Zingiberaceae family (like ginger or turmeric) should avoid galangal to prevent allergic reactions.
• Galangal may interact with blood-thinning medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. 

Although galangal can help you recover from many ailments, it is better to consult with your physician before using it as alternative medicine.

So, to wrap up, we have learnt that galangal belongs to the same family as ginger and turmeric. This root spice is very healthy and can be easily incorporated into one's daily diet. However, regardless of the benefits of galangal, you must use it in a moderate amount to avoid any serious health conditions. Galangal offers numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to your diet. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating it.