Enxtra Greater Galanga Root Extract
Also known as: Greater galangal, Galangal root, Thai galangal, Enxtra Greater Galanga Root Extract, Alpinia galanga
Overview
Alpinia galanga, commonly known as greater galangal, is a rhizome belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) with a long history of use in Southeast Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. Extracts from its rhizome, such as Enxtra Greater Galanga Root Extract, contain bioactive compounds like 1′-acetoxychavicol acetate, galangin, and various terpenoids. It is primarily investigated for its potential analgesic, anti-inflammatory, androgenic, and cognitive-enhancing properties. While research on Alpinia galanga is moderately developed, with preclinical studies and some clinical trials, specific high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on galangal monotherapy are still emerging. Evidence quality ranges from preclinical data to systematic reviews and meta-analyses that often include other Zingiberaceae extracts, with some direct RCT data supporting its use for sexual dysfunction and pain.
Benefits
Alpinia galanga extract has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits. A triple-blind randomized controlled trial (n=60) showed that 500 mg/day of *Alpinia galanga* extract significantly improved International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores over 4 weeks in adult males experiencing SSRI-induced erectile dysfunction (mean increase to 17.4 ± 3.7 vs. 13.7 ± 4.3; p < 0.001). This indicates a statistically and clinically significant improvement in sexual function. For pain reduction, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 RCTs (N=734) involving Zingiberaceae extracts, including galangal, found a moderate to large reduction in subjective chronic pain (standardized mean difference −0.67; 95% CI −1.13 to −0.21; p=0.004), suggesting meaningful symptom relief with a dose-response relationship. These benefits are particularly relevant for adult males on SSRIs experiencing sexual dysfunction and individuals with chronic pain conditions like osteoarthritis or muscle soreness. Additionally, traditional uses and animal models suggest potential secondary benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and metabolic improvements, though clinical evidence for these is more limited.
How it works
The therapeutic effects of Alpinia galanga are attributed to its bioactive compounds, primarily 1′-acetoxychavicol acetate, galangin, and other flavonoids and terpenoids. For pain relief, 1′-acetoxychavicol acetate is believed to modulate transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels, which are crucial in pain signaling pathways. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are mediated by flavonoids like galangin and phenylpropanoids, which work by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and mitigating oxidative stress within the body. The observed androgenic activity and improvement in erectile function may be linked to the modulation of sex hormone pathways. While specific absorption and bioavailability data for Alpinia galanga are limited, its lipophilic compounds are likely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, similar to other extracts from the ginger family.
Side effects
Alpinia galanga extracts generally exhibit a favorable safety profile in clinical trials, with no serious adverse events reported. The available research indicates that common side effects, if any, are minimal and not well-documented as occurring in more than 5% of users. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been definitively reported for Alpinia galanga. However, due to its botanical relation to ginger, caution is advised regarding a potential, albeit low, bleeding risk, especially for individuals on anticoagulant medications. There is insufficient data to assess the safety of Alpinia galanga in special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, or children, and therefore its use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision. Overall, it appears to be well-tolerated at studied dosages, but comprehensive safety data for long-term use or very high doses is still developing.
Dosage
For the improvement of SSRI-induced erectile dysfunction, a minimum effective dose of 500 mg/day of standardized *Alpinia galanga* extract has demonstrated efficacy in a 4-week randomized controlled trial. For pain management, dosages can vary; for instance, one osteoarthritis study utilized 510 mg/day of a mixed galangal and ginger extract over 6 weeks, showing moderate benefits. There is currently no established maximum safe dose, as clinical studies have not reported dose-limiting toxicity. The supplement is typically administered orally on a daily basis, though specific timing relative to meals has not been specified as critical. It is recommended to use an extract standardized for its bioactive compounds to ensure consistent potency. While not definitively established, absorption may potentially be enhanced when taken with lipids, though specific cofactors are not yet identified.
FAQs
Is Enxtra Greater Galanga Root Extract safe?
Yes, clinical trials generally report a good safety profile with minimal side effects, and no serious adverse events have been noted.
How soon can I expect to see benefits?
Improvements in erectile function have been observed within 4 weeks, while the timeline for pain relief can vary depending on the specific condition.
Can it be taken with SSRIs?
Yes, a clinical trial specifically studied its co-administration with SSRIs for sexual dysfunction and found no adverse interactions.
Is it effective for all types of pain?
Evidence supports its role in chronic pain reduction, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the specific type and cause of pain.
Are there any risks of bleeding?
Similar to other ginger family extracts, there is a potential, though low, risk of bleeding, so caution is advised, especially with anticoagulants.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10151528/ – This triple-blind randomized controlled trial investigated the effect of 500 mg/day Alpinia galanga extract on SSRI-induced erectile dysfunction in 60 adult males over 4 weeks. It found a significant improvement in IIEF scores compared to placebo, demonstrating the extract's efficacy for this specific condition. The study highlights a robust design despite a small sample size.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4436156/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from 8 RCTs (N=734) on Zingiberaceae extracts, including galangal, for pain relief. It concluded that these extracts provide a moderate to large hypoalgesic effect for chronic pain, with a dose-response relationship. The study acknowledges heterogeneity among included studies but provides strong evidence for the family of extracts.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/galangal.html – This source provides a comprehensive overview of galangal, confirming findings from the meta-analysis regarding pain reduction. It also notes a specific osteoarthritis trial using a mixed galangal and ginger extract that showed moderate pain benefits, while highlighting the current lack of extensive monotherapy dosing studies for galangal.
- https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240725/Therapeutic-properties-and-and-phytochemical-profile-of-greater-galangal.aspx – This article discusses the therapeutic properties and phytochemical profile of greater galangal, providing insights into its bioactive compounds and their potential mechanisms of action, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It supports the understanding of how the extract works at a molecular level.
- http://www.aimspress.com/article/doi/10.3934/agrfood.2024057?viewType=HTML – This research provides further context on the broader applications and scientific understanding of Alpinia galanga, likely covering its traditional uses, chemical composition, and various potential health benefits beyond those specifically detailed in the other citations. It contributes to a holistic view of the ingredient.
Supplements Containing Enxtra Greater Galanga Root Extract
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