Gao Liang Jiang (Alpinia, Galanga)

Chinese Herb: Gao Liang Jiang (Alpinia, galanga, lesser galangal rhizome)

Alpinia Officinarum; Rhizoma Alphiniae Officinarum

Galanga, or Lesser Galangal Rhizome in English, Gao Liang Jiang is classified as an interior warming herb, taking a place along side herbs such as Hua Jiao, Rou Gui, or Chuan Wu. Being acrid and hot in nature, Galanga shows its strength in its ability to warm the Spleen and Stomach; not surprisingly, it also enters these meridians. It is also used to drive out common accumulations of Liver qi, and also exhibits analgesic properties.

This is a fairly uncommon ingredient in some dit da jow formulas for its stimulating and pain relieving properties.

Properties

Acrid, hot

Channels Entered

Spleen, Stomach