Introduction Galangal essential oil, often called the “Thai cousin of ginger,” is a vibrant, spicy, and slightly citrusy oil distilled from the rhizomes of the galangal plant. Widely used in Thai cuisine and traditional medicine, it offers a bright, sharp, and warming aroma that stands apart from ginger or plai. At Herbsmetics, we feature Galangal oil in our Perfume & Aromatherapy Workshops in Phuket, where participants experience its exotic scent and learn how it enriches both perfumes and wellness blends.
Aroma Profile
Top Notes: Fresh, spicy, with a hint of citrus zest.
Heart Notes: Warm, woody, and slightly camphoraceous.
Base Nuance: Dry, earthy warmth with lingering sharpness.
Compared to ginger, galangal is more peppery and citrusy, giving it a distinctive aromatic character.
Origins & Cultural Heritage Galangal (Alpinia galanga) is native to Southeast Asia and is deeply embedded in Thai culture:
Culinary Use: A key ingredient in Thai soups such as Tom Kha Gai and curries, known for its sharp, citrus-spice flavor.
Traditional Medicine: Used in Thai herbal practices to aid digestion, improve circulation, and ease colds.
Spiritual Significance: Associated with energy, vitality, and cleansing rituals.
A true symbol of Thai heritage, bridging flavor, healing, and fragrance.
Production & Extraction Galangal essential oil is produced by steam distillation of the rhizomes.
Method: Steam releases its rich concentration of active compounds such as cineole, eugenol, and pinene.
Quality: Pure, undiluted, and freshly distilled from Thai-sourced galangal.
Distinctiveness: Offers a sharper, more citrus-herbal aroma compared to ginger or plai.
Benefits & Unique Advantages
Digestive Aid: Traditionally used to reduce bloating, indigestion, and nausea.
Circulatory Support: Stimulates blood flow and promotes vitality.
Respiratory Relief: Helps clear congestion and ease colds.
Emotional Energy: Invigorating and uplifting aroma combats fatigue.
Perfumery Role: Adds a spicy-citrus brightness to blends, perfect for exotic and oriental-style fragrances.
Workshop Relevance At the Herbsmetics Perfume Workshops in Phuket, Galangal oil is introduced as a distinctive Thai aromatic:
As a top-to-heart note, it provides sharp freshness with a spicy backbone.
Guests enjoy combining it with kaffir lime, lemongrass, or sandalwood for authentic Thai-inspired blends.
Its dual character — fresh yet warm — makes it a fascinating oil for participants to experiment with in both perfumes and diffusers.
Example Uses Perfumery: Blend with kaffir lime peel, ginger, or patchouli for exotic, energizing fragrances.
Diffuser: Add 2–3 drops for an invigorating, clarifying atmosphere.
Massage Oils: Dilute in carrier oil for warming, circulation-enhancing blends.
Skincare: Traditionally used in tonics (highly diluted) for stimulating and refreshing effects.
Wellness: Perfect addition to Thai-style herbal compresses or baths.
Why Choose Herbsmetics Galangal Oil?
Authentic Thai galangal, distilled locally for purity and potency.
Rich in cineole and eugenol, giving it strong therapeutic and aromatic properties.
Deeply rooted in Thai cuisine, medicine, and cultural rituals.
A highlight in our Phuket workshops, where guests discover its bold and exotic scent.
👉 Ideal for those seeking an authentic Thai spice oil that blends culinary heritage, therapeutic power, and perfumery uniqueness.