It is frequently
found in the sub-Himalayan region of Bihar,
West Bengal, Assam, and is extensively cultivated all
over India, mostly in shady situations. It is a reputed
drug in the indigenous systems of medicine and is fairly
largely used in southern India as a domestic remedy. The
dried rhizome provides the drug greater galangal, which
is widely used in rheumatism and bronchial catarrh. It
is considered as a tonic, stomachic, carminative and
stimulant.3 The drug possesses significant expectorant
action and is chiefly used for clearing the voice. In Kerala,
the rhizomes are also used for seasoning fish, in
pickling and even for insecticidal purposes. The essential
oil from the rhizome possesses a strong and spicy
odour. The oil possesses antibacterial, antispasmodic and
carminative properties.3