Galangal root has been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for various ailments, and a growing number of scientific studies support these uses. Rich in Antioxidants Galangal root is a rich source of antioxidants, which are beneficial plant compounds that help fight disease and protect cells from damaging free radicals. It is especially rich in polyphenols, a group of antioxidants linked to health benefits such as improved memory and lower blood sugar and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Polyphenols are also believed to protect against mental decline, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Both ginger and turmeric, two close relatives of galangal root, are also high in polyphenols and have been linked to these benefits. However, no studies have directly linked galangal root to these effects, so more research is needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn. May Protect Against Certain Cancers Galangal root may help protect your body against certain types of cancer. Test-tube studies suggest that the active compound in galangal root, known as galangin, may kill cancer cells or prevent them from spreading. More specifically, one study highlighted the spice's ability to kill two strains of human colon cancer cells. Other studies suggest that it may fight cancer cells of the breast, bile duct, skin, and liver. That said, the test-tube findings don't necessarily apply to humans. While the study results have been promising, more research in humans is needed. May increase male fertility Emerging evidence suggests that galangal root may increase male fertility. In an animal study, sperm count and motility were increased in rats given galangal root extract. Additionally, in a 3-month study in 66 men with poor sperm quality, taking a daily supplement containing galangal root and pomegranate fruit extract resulted in a 62% increase in sperm motility, compared to an increase in sperm motility. 20% in the placebo group. Although this finding is interesting, it is not clear if the effect was due to the galangal root or the pomegranate extract. More human research is needed to determine the effects of galangal root on male fertility. It can combat inflammation and pain. Galangal root may reduce disease-causing inflammation as it contains HMP, a naturally occurring phytochemical that test-tube and animal studies have suggested has potent anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, plants in the Zingiberaceae family, including galangal, seem to slightly reduce pain, a common symptom of inflammation. For example, in a 6-week study of 261 people with osteoarthritis of the knee, 63% of those taking an extract of ginger and galangal daily reported a reduction in knee pain when standing, compared to 50%. of those who took a placebo. However, more studies are needed on the pain-reducing effects of galangal root specifically before any firm conclusions can be drawn. May Protect Against Infections The essential oils extracted from the galangal root can fight a variety of microorganisms. As such, galangal root can extend the shelf life of certain foods. Also, adding fresh galangal root to your recipes can reduce the risk of vibriosis, an infection caused by eating undercooked shellfish. Additionally, test-tube studies suggest that galangal root may kill harmful bacteria, including E. coli, Staphyloccocus aureus, and Salmonella Typhi, although its effectiveness seems to vary between studies. Finally, some research suggests that galangal root may protect against fungus, yeast, and parasites, however, not all studies agree.
