It is used in Russia for flavoring vinegar and the liqueur Nastoika. It is still used as a spice and medicine.

In Iran at medicinal local shops it is named "Ghoolanjan" (= Khoolanjan in Arabic) and use as a medicinal plant (BY: F.Ghahremaninejad).Alpinia officinarum, known as lesser galangal, is a plant in the ginger family, cultivated in Southeast Asia. It originated in China, where its name ultimately derives. It can grow several feet high, with long leaves and reddish-white flowers. The rhizomes, known as galangal, are valued for their spicy flavor and aromatic scent. These are used throughout Asia in curries and perfumes, and were previously used widely in Europe. They are also used as an herbal remedy.

The spice used in South Eastern Asia which often goes by the name of "Lesser Galangal" is actually Kaempferia galanga.

Description

This herbaceous plant can grow up to ten feet in height, though three to five feet is more common. The leaves are lanceolate (long and thin), and the flowers are white with streaks of red, growing from a spike at the top. The plant's rhizomes, known as galangal, are thin and tough, and they are the principal reason the plant is cultivated. They have orange flesh inside, with a brow coating, and have an aromatic odor and a pungent flavor. These are smaller than greater galangal.

Uses

The galagal rhizomes were widely used in ancient and medieval Europe, reputed to smell of roses and taste of spice.Its use in Europe has dramatically declined, however, and is now only used in Eastern Europe. It is used in Russia for flavoring vinegar and the liqueur Nastoika. It is still used as a spice and medicine in Lithuania and Estonia.

In Asia the rhizomes are ground to powder for use in curries, drinks, and jellies.[1] In India the essence is used in perfumes, and Tartars prepare a kind of tea that contains it.

Alpinia officinarum contains high concentrations of the flavonol galangin,which has been shown to slow the increase and growth of breast tumor cells. Historically, the rhizomes were reputed to have stimulant and digestive effects.

Distribution

Lesser galangal is native to China, growing mainly on the southeast coast, and grows in Hainan and Thailand.It is also cultivated in India which is the second largest exporter of the galangal rhizome. Hong Kong is the commercial center for the sale and distribution of the lesser galangal.

galangal