Dried Lesser Galangal | Chitharathai | Sitharathai | Alpinia Officinarum

Dried Lesser Galangal | Chitharathai | Sitharathai | Alpinia Officinarum – A Time-Tested Herbal Remedy

Nature’s Ancient Solution for Respiratory, Digestive & Immune Health

Chitharathai, also known as Sitharathai in Tamil and Lesser Galangal in English, is a treasured root in Ayurveda and Siddha systems of medicine. Belonging to the ginger family (Alpinia officinarum), this potent herb is traditionally used for its warming, decongestant, and digestive properties.

At Naturoherbs, we bring you carefully sourced and naturally dried Lesser Galangal roots, preserved in their purest form to retain their full medicinal potency. Whether you’re an individual user, health brand, or practitioner, we offer wholesale and private labeling services, and we ship to every country worldwide.

Regional Names of Lesser Galangal / Chitharathai

• Botanical Name: Alpinia officinarum

• English: Lesser Galangal

• Tamil: சித்தரத்தை / Sitharathai

• Malayalam: ചിറ്റരത്ത, കോലിഞ്ചി / Chittaratha, Kolinchi

• Telugu: దుంపరాష్ట్రకము / Dumparaashtrakamu

• Hindi: कुलंजन / Kulanjan

Traditional Uses & Therapeutic Benefits

1. Soothes Cough, Cold & Throat Irritation

Lesser Galangal is widely known as a natural expectorant. It helps in clearing mucus from the lungs, easing breathing, and soothing sore throat and chronic cough—making it an essential remedy in traditional winter preparations and homemade kashayams (herbal decoctions).

2. Improves Digestion and Appetite

This warming root stimulates digestive fire (Agni), enhances appetite, and alleviates issues like bloating, flatulence, and indigestion. It is often included in herbal formulas to support gut health and manage gastric discomfort.

3. Relieves Inflammation and Pain

Sitharathai contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds, making it effective for managing joint pain, arthritis, and general body aches. It also offers relief from inflammation of the throat and respiratory tract.

4. Boosts Immunity Naturally

Its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties help the body fight infections and build natural resistance. Regular use supports stronger immunity and better overall vitality.

How to Use Chitharathai (Lesser Galangal)

• Herbal Decoction (Kashayam): Boil crushed Sitharathai with water, tulsi, pepper, and dry ginger for an effective remedy for colds and congestion.

• Chitharathai Powder: Sun-dried and ground to a fine powder, it can be added to herbal teas or mixed with honey.

• Traditional Confection (Sitharathai Churanam): Often made into small chewable balls with jaggery and pepper for kids and elders to strengthen lungs and prevent infections.

Ideal for Herbalists, Wellness Brands & Ayurvedic Practitioners

Our Dried Sitharathai roots are ideal for:

• Ayurvedic & Siddha medicine preparations

• Herbal tea blends and respiratory tonics

• Immunity-boosting natural products

• Functional food and health supplement brands