Galangal essential oil is obtained through the steam distillation of fresh rhizomes. The quality of the oil depends on the skill of the distiller and the quality of the rhizomes used. The aroma and quality of the oil can vary widely, depending on these factors, much like the difference between Ginger and Ginger Fresh. The best quality Galangal essential oil is always distilled from fresh rhizomes. Although there was an idea of offering Galangal in CO2 form, the aroma and dark color of the oil was a major put-off.
Galangal essential oil has a very gourmand and pleasurable aroma. It blends well with most spice oils and particularly well with Ginger (Fresh) and Cardamom oils, as they share similar aromatic notes. In natural perfumery, Galangal can be best applied in Gourmand and Oriental bouquets. The true Galangal is more appealing in perfumery than Ginger or Plai because of its smooth and slightly less pungent notes that, when blended with Cardamom, create a perfect harmonious match.
Galangal has been used for centuries in Europe and Asia as a carminative. Although its use in aromatherapy in the West is rather new, it is known to have some beneficial properties. Galangal is beneficial in aphrodisiac blends and is known for its energizing and digestive qualities in Chinese medicine. Some sources indicate that Galangal is the oil of choice for boosting intuition and amplifying psychic abilities.
According to Tisserand, there are two types of Galangal used in aromatherapy: Galangal (Greater), which is also known as Siam Ginger from Alpinia galanga L., and Galangal (Lesser), which is also known as Chinese Ginger from Alpinia officinarum Hance. True Galangal oil only comes from the Alpinia genus and should not be confused with False Galangal from Kaemferia Galangal. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the source of the Galangal oil to ensure its quality and effectiveness.
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