Cassumunar ginger

Cassumunar Ginger, “Phlai” in Thai, is a fairly specific component of traditional Thai medicine. The active elements are found in the rhizomes of the plant. It is known to relieve pain, inflammation, and help reduce skin infections.

We prefer our supplies in the provinces of Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok and Isan, which provide high quality Phlai, produced mainly on traditional farms.

Benefits and Uses

Cassumunar ginger is widely used in Thailand for the many benefits that are recognized for it.

Anti-inflammatory

Helps to reduce body inflammation, swelling and stiffness. Relieves muscle, joint and ligament pain. Helps to reduce the symptoms of certain inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, but also asthma and bronchitis.

Analgesic

Helps to relieve muscle, tendon and joint pain, in particular by improving blood circulation in the affected area. Helps relieve headaches and migraines

Antioxidant

Rich in antioxidants, it is an active support for cells against damage caused by free radicals.

anti-nausea

When inhaled, helps relieve nausea and vomiting.

General Tonic

Improves blood flow and stimulates the immune system.

Historical Origins

Phlai is one of several traditional Asian medicines, but it is in Thailand that it has taken a preponderant place. Its use dates back several centuries and is mentioned in the majority of historical writings.

It is thus mentioned in very ancient books, but also in the most modern ones, such as the “Tamra Ya Mongkol”, also known under the name of “Queen Sirikit's Medical Treatise”, compiled during the reign of King Rama IV (19th century)

Thai herbalists have developed a great deal of expertise in its use. Thai villagers have also used it for generations to treat muscle pain, certain skin infections or even as a facial treatment.

SOURCES

Phlai is a herbaceous plant that grows from an underground rhizome. It can reach a height of about 1 to 1.5 meters.

Thailand is the world's main producer of Phlai, with several regions of the country renowned for high-quality production:

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  • Ayutthaya Province: Located in the center of Thailand, the climate and tradition allowed the development of quality Phlai productions.
  • Phitsanulok Province: Located in northern Thailand, it is home to large Phlai farms.
  • Isan region: In the north-east, this very agricultural region is known for its production of high quality Phlai.

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We prefer our supplies in these regions which provide high quality Phlai, produced mainly on traditional farms.

PRODUCTION

Phlai is mainly used in powder form, because it is easier to store, transport and incorporate:

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  • Harvest: Phlai rhizomes are dug up carefully when the plant reaches maturity.
  • Cleaning: They are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, soil, and other impurities.
  • Drying: It can be carried out in the open air, in the sun or in industrial dryers, using traditional or modern methods.
  • Grinding: Once the rhizomes are completely dry, they are ground into a fine powder, often using traditional stone millstones
  • Sieving: The powder obtained is then sieved to remove the coarse particles and obtain a uniform powder.
  • Packaging: Finally, Phlai powder is packaged in containers suitable for distribution.

COMPOSITION

Cassumunar ginger, also known by the scientific name Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. contains numerous elements:

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  • Essential oils: Camphor, cineole, borneol, and zingiberene.
  • Monoterpenes: Camphene, pinene and myrcene, are present there.
  • Sesquiterpenes: Zingiberene and β-sesquiphellandrene are also present and contribute to the aroma and therapeutic properties of the plant.
  • Phenolic compounds: Gingerols and shogaols, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

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The plant may contain other components, such as flavonoids, of carbs, of proteins And minerals.

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