Wiki / Galangal Root

Galangal Root (also Galangal, botanically Alpinia galanga or Alpinia officinarum) is a plant of the ginger family whose aromatic root has been known for centuries as a spice, medicinal agent and incense. The fragrance when burned is warm, ginger-like and spicy with slightly camphor-like and citrusy notes.

Hildegard of Bingen (12th century) described galangal as her most important medicinal plant and recommended it for a great variety of complaints. As an incense, galangal root is said to be warming and invigorating, to sharpen concentration and to promote active, powerful energy. In Asian incense traditions it is used for vitality and strength.

Use: Place dried root slices on incense charcoal. Slowly unfolding, warm fragrance.