Evidence supporting the use of: Galanga
For the health condition: Colds (decongestant)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Galanga (Alpinia galanga), commonly known as greater galangal, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used to help treat colds, coughs, and respiratory congestion, largely due to its aromatic compounds and spicy, warming nature, which are believed to help clear nasal passages and ease breathing. The rhizome is often included in herbal remedies for its purported decongestant and expectorant properties.

From a scientific perspective, while galanga contains bioactive compounds such as 1,8-cineole and eugenol that could theoretically have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, direct evidence supporting its efficacy as a decongestant or treatment for colds in humans is limited. Some laboratory studies suggest that extracts from galanga may have antibacterial and antiviral effects, but robust clinical trials in humans are lacking.

Therefore, the use of galanga for colds and congestion is primarily justified by tradition rather than strong scientific validation. Its inclusion in herbal remedies is based on centuries of empirical use and anecdotal evidence rather than modern clinical research.

More about Galanga
More about Colds (decongestant)

Products containing Galanga

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.