Galangal

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Galangal (/ˈɡæləŋˌɡæl/^[1]) is a rhizome of plants in the ginger family Zingiberaceae, with culinary and medicinal uses originating in Indonesia. ^[2] It is one of four species in the genus Alpinia, and is known for its pungent, aromatic flavor. Greater galangal (Alpinia galanga) is most commonly used, and is similar to ginger and turmeric. It is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. Lesser galangal (Alpinia officinarum) and other types are also used, though less frequently. In traditional medicine, galangal is used to treat various ailments. It is a common ingredient in Thai, Indonesian, and Malaysian cuisine, and is also used in some traditional Chinese medicine.