Chitharathai | Alpinia Calcarata | Galangal

Chitharathai, also known as Alpinia galanga, is a rhizome used in both culinary and medicinal applications. Similar in appearance to ginger, it has a distinct soapy, earthy scent and a pine-like flavor with subtle citrus notes.

Health Benefits:

• Cough Relief: Its rhizome can alleviate coughs accompanied by sputum when chewed.
• Anti-Nausea Properties: Known for its ability to combat nausea.
• Infant Health: Used in various forms, including baked or roasted with honey and breast milk, to aid with infantile digestive and respiratory issues.
• Rheumatic Relief: Powdered Chitharathai, consumed in specific doses, is believed to alleviate rheumatic disorders.
• Digestive Aid: Chitharathai powder, known as choornam, taken before meals, helps manage digestive disorders (1 to 5 grams).

How to Store:

• Store Chitharathai powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Different Languages:

• English: Chitharathai (Alpinia galanga)
• Malayalam: ചിതരത്ത (Chitharatha)
• Tamil: சிதரத்தை (Chitharathai)
• Kannada: ಚಿತರತಾಈ (Chitaratā’ī)
• Telugu: చితరత్త (Citiratta)
• Hindi: चितरत (Chitarata)
• Arabic: چیتارتای (Chitaratay)