Kaempferia Galanga (Kencur)
spice
Kaempferia galanga, commonly known as kencur, aromatic ginger, sand ginger, cutcherry, is a monocotyledonous plant in the ginger family, and one of four plants called galangal. It is found primarily in open areas in Indonesia, southern China, Taiwan, Cambodia, and India, but is also widely cultivated throughout Southeast Asia.
Conditions addressed
How to use
- Add to meals during cooking, brew as tea, or mix into warm water with honey.
- Use ¼–1 tsp per serving.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Kaempferia Galanga (Kencur) in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Kaempferia Galanga (Kencur) itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
AvoidThis herb is associated with stimulant activity, which can raise heart rate and blood pressure — generally best avoided or strictly limited in pregnancy. This is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.
Breastfeeding
Use CautionStimulant compounds pass into breast milk and can cause infant irritability or poor sleep — generally used cautiously and in moderation.
Children
AvoidStimulant effects on the developing cardiovascular and nervous system mean these herbs are generally avoided in children.
Interactions & contraindications
May have a stimulant effect
Watch for: Other caffeine-containing products, MAOIs, and stimulant medications (for ADHD or weight loss)
Additive stimulant effects can raise heart rate and blood pressure.