Greater Galangal vs Mentha longifolia

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Greater Galangal

Alpinia galanga

Digestive

Digestive

Greater Galangal

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Mentha longifolia

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Already entered as galangal-root — distinct entry for emphasis on its anticancer and digestive properties researched in modern medicine.

Wild mint widespread across Europe, Asia, and Africa; used in traditional medicine across many cultures.

Active Compounds

galangin, ACA (1-acetoxychavicol acetate), kaempferide, beta-sitosterol

pulegone, piperitenone, menthol traces, carvone, beta-pinene

Traditional Uses

Treat digestive complaints, Respiratory infections, Pain relief, Traditional Southeast Asian ceremonial medicine

digestive disorders, fever, respiratory infections, headache

Modern Uses

Anti-inflammatory, Anticancer research, Antimicrobial, Digestive

antipyretic, carminative, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

3-6g fresh or dried daily

3-5g dried herb or 2-3ml tincture daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy at high doses, Anticoagulants

pregnancy large amounts - pulegone emmenagogue, GERD

Side Effects

GI upset at excess

GI upset, liver concerns with pulegone-rich preparations

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E