Alpinia
has been known in Europe for several centuries. It was recognized in 1870, when specimens were examined that had been found
near Tung-sai, in the extreme south of China, and later, on the island of Hainan.
Traditional uses
have included treatment of flatulence, dyspepsia, vomiting, gastrointestinal complaints,
Expert Opinion and Folkloric
Precedent:
In Brazil,
where Alpinia zerumbet is called "colonia," it is used widely in folk medicine for the treatment of various
diseases, including hypertension. The seeds of Alpinia blepharocalyx K. Schum. is used in traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM) for the treatment of stomach disorders.
