Galangal

(Galangal)
Sanskrit: सुगन्धवचा • Botanical: Kaempferia galanga Linn.

Sugandha Vacha (Galangal/Kaempferia galanga) is mentioned in the text as a fragrant rhizome sometimes confused with or substituted for Kapur Kachri (Hedychium spicatum). The rhizome is small, aromatic, and camphoraceous. It is used as a digestive, expectorant, and for Vata disorders. The plant is low-growing with round leaves close to the ground and white flowers with purple markings. It is cultivated in southern India and Southeast Asia.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Also Known As
English: Galangal, Aromatic Ginger
Sanskrit: सुगन्धवचा, चन्द्रमूलिका
Hindi: सुगन्धवचा

What is Galangal (Sugandha Vacha / सुगन्धवचा)?

Sugandha Vacha (Galangal/Kaempferia galanga) is mentioned in the text as a fragrant rhizome sometimes confused with or substituted for Kapur Kachri (Hedychium spicatum). The rhizome is small, aromatic, and camphoraceous. It is used as a digestive, expectorant, and for Vata disorders. The plant is low-growing with round leaves close to the ground and white flowers with purple markings. It is cultivated in southern India and Southeast Asia.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Deepana (appetizer)
  • Kasahara (antitussive)
  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.