Galangal

[Fey]

This is the first time I’ve seen Galangal flowering. For some reason I thought it would be like a Turmeric flower. I’ll get another picture up when it opens fully.

Galangal doesn’t die down in the Winter like Turmeric and Ginger, but it handles the cold here quite well (approx20F)

I keep it under the shade cloth because, like Ginger and Turmeric, it doesn’t like the direct sun of an Australian Summer.

Attached files

[Fey]

Here’s some medicinal info; basically does much the same as Ginger. To me, it does seem a little easier to grow than Ginger. I don’t have to worry about dormant Rhizomes overwintering in the soil.

A spicy herb used for colitis, diverticulosis, nausea, vomiting, motion sickness or sea sickness, gas, indigestion, paralysis of the tongue, morning sickness, vomiting, hot flashes and menstrual cramps. Cleanses the colon, stimulates circulation, and reduces spasms and cramps.

Galangal tea or tincture, taken hot, promotes cleansing of the system through perspiration and is also said to be useful for suppressed menstruation. Take it to clear up flatulent colic or combine it with laxative herbs to make them more palatable or milder in action. Try it at the onset of a cold to ease the effects of the usual symptoms. Finally, to stimulate the flow of saliva and to soothe a sore throat, chew the rootstock as it is.

Grated galangal can be topically applied externally, as a poultice or hot fomentation to relieve painful aches, sprains, and spasms.

Formulas or Dosages

Infusion: mix 1/2 tsp. powdered rootstock with 1 tsp. (or more) honey. Add 1 cup boiling water. If desired, add an ounce of brandy or other liquor.

Tincture: take 15 or more drops at a time, warm.

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

Great info, thanks for sharing. I’ve never used it but as I recall, Michael Tierra talked about it in one of his books.

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

[Fey]

I’ve often wondered if I need all these herbs. The thing is, I’ve got another ginger, Alpinia zerumbet (shell flower ginger). It’s a Japanese longevity herb. The flower can be used as shampoo. The thing is, one day I put a leaf in my salad. Not only did it taste good, I felt a positive feeling from eating it. When I first took a bite, it just made me think, “oh!” Sounds silly, but this extra ginger was a wonderful surprise. I nibble as I go around my herbs, but this one made me take another look.

Every single plant, even closely related to another, usually does something unique to itself.

[IdahoHerbalist]

Fey wrote: Every single plant, even closely related to another, usually does something unique to itself.

The mints are the ones I am most familiar that have this feature.

I don’t think you should worry about overlap species (maybe you are not?). We talk about this in our workshops. Not only for the reasons quoted above, but what if some nasty comes along and really sets back your primary plant or, :scared: , sends it to its demise? If you have a backup species or four, then you still have a way to proceed while you reestablish the primary, if possible.

[Fey]

That makes so much sense Steven. I didn’t think of that.

(Oh good….now I will keep collecting :yahoo: )

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

Redundancy is good insurance.

Patrick

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

[Author]

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