Evidence supporting the use of: Galangal
For the health condition: Cough (spastic)

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Synopsis

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

Galangal, a rhizome belonging to the Zingiberaceae family (related to ginger), is traditionally used in various Asian medical systems for respiratory ailments, including coughs. In Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, galangal is included in formulations intended to ease throat irritations, bronchitis, and spasmodic coughs. The rationale for its use is based on its warming, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties as described in these systems. However, scientific validation for its effectiveness in treating spastic (paroxysmal) cough is limited. Some laboratory studies have identified anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds in galangal (notably 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate and galangin), but robust clinical trials in humans for cough are lacking. The traditional use is the primary evidence for its application in this context, and while there is some pharmacological basis, the evidence is not strong or specific for spastic cough. Therefore, galangal's use for this purpose is best described as traditional, with low to moderate evidence supporting its efficacy, largely extrapolated from general anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity.

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