Kalgan (cinquefoil erect) is a perennial plant with a tuber-like, woody root 10 to 20 cm high. The stems of the plant are erect, have a fine texture, dense foliage and short hairs. On thin, long pedicels, single buds with a diameter of about 1 cm are located. The name gained its name in the Arab lands, and in translation into Russian it means "wild ginger." The flowering period of the plant is from early June to late July.
In the Slavic lands, more than one healing property of a sea otter is known. In addition, the plant in ancient times was considered endowed with supernatural power and was called "whisper" or "powerful". Folk medicine most often uses Kalgan root, the healing properties of which since ancient times are considered one of the most effective. Also, for the preparation of medicinal products, grass, foliage, flowers and plant stems are used.
The period of collection and harvesting of the root of the cinquefoil erect - April and May. This is the time when leaf regrowth begins. After the roots are collected, they are cleaned, dried at a temperature of from 50 to 60 ° C in specially designed dryers or in places with free access to air. The medicinal herb Kalgan begins to be harvested during the flowering period of the plant. This time is the most favorable.
None of the healing properties of the sea otter did not go unnoticed by the doctors of medieval Europe and the East. The plant served as a substitute for the then nonexistent antibiotics. The main medicinal properties of galangal are antibacterial, therefore, with its help they easily got rid of various infections. Preparations made on the basis of this plant have other healing qualities:
- inhibit inflammatory processes;
- stop bleeding;
- relieve pain;
- evacuate excess bile from the body;
- various wounds heal;
- accelerate the production and withdrawal of sputum from the respiratory tract.
Among other things, galangal is a spice that is capable of
improve appetite, relieve stomach cramps, accelerate the removal of gases from the intestines. The analgesic effect of the plant can be clearly seen with toothache. Another unsurpassed healing properties of galangal is its ability to treat ulcers in the duodenum and stomach, as well as
stop bleeding in the digestive tract.
The substances that are contained in the kalgan positively affect the skin, have a constricting effect and a disinfecting effect. For this reason, the plant extract is often included in creams and other products designed to heal various kinds of wounds, to reduce and smooth out scars. Kalgan is also able to instantly relieve pain during burns and accelerate their healing, the process of regeneration of skin cells. Decoctions prepared on the basis of the plant, perfectly disinfect the larynx for colds. In the process of inhalation, galangal fumes have a softening effect on the bronchi. The healing properties of the plant are also indispensable in the treatment of rheumatism and jaundice.