Evidence supporting the use of: Sharp-leaf galangal
For the health condition: Sinus Infection
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Sharp-leaf galangal (Alpinia galanga), also known as greater galangal, has been used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Southeast Asian folk remedies for a variety of ailments, including respiratory conditions like sinus infections. Traditionally, its rhizome has been employed as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory agent, believed to help clear sinus congestion and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. Decoctions or teas made from the root have often been used to relieve symptoms such as nasal obstruction and headache associated with sinusitis.
However, while there is some in vitro and animal research suggesting that Alpinia galanga possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, there is a lack of direct clinical evidence specifically supporting its efficacy for sinus infections in humans. Most studies focus on its general antimicrobial activity or its effects on other inflammatory conditions. Therefore, while its use for sinus infection is rooted in traditional practices and some plausible biological mechanisms exist, scientific validation through clinical trials is lacking. The evidence rating is thus a 2, reflecting mainly traditional use with only indirect scientific support.
Other ingredients used for Sinus Infection
alpha-pinenebenegut perilla (proprietary)
black pepper
bromelain
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
fennel
goldenseal
immunoglobin G
honeysuckle
lactobacillus gasseri
marshmallow
mint
peppermint oil
platycodon root
quercetin
serratiopeptidase
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
wasabia japonica
zinc
mullein
hyssop
cardamom
malabar nut
inula racemosa
anise
pau d'arco
elecampane
sweetgums
Sichuan pepper
sea salt
Anamarrhena
Alpha-terpineol
Asarum heterotropoides
Asafoetida
Andrographis
allyl isothiocyanate
Barleria
black salt
Buddha's Hand
Cineole
Cinidium
Cistus
cypress
Ephedra
Elder
Goldthread
Other health conditions supported by Sharp-leaf galangal
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Appetite (deficient)
Belching
Bronchitis
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Digestion (poor)
Fever
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Indigestion
Inflammation
Nausea and Vomiting
Pain (general remedies for)
Sinus Infection
Sore Throat
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores