Galangal root or Little John root is a popular ingredient in Hoodoo and Conjure spells and workings. Also known as Little John to chew (because you are supposed to chew it and spit out small pieces around the home,) it’s classified as Alpinia galanga. Botanically related to ginger, this rhizome is found growing naturally in Indonesia and Iran. It can grow up to 6 feet tall with beautiful foliage over a foot long. It can be grown in the Southern US, particularly zones 9 and 10. A full galangal root is called a hand, as the individual roots resemble fingers.
Asian medicine employs galangal root for a variety of issues such as digestion, coughs, arthritis and even Alzheimer’s. The website for whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.org shares “Galangal has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It was brought to England and northern Europe in the 13th century by the crusaders where it became a popular spice and medicine. St. Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179 C.E.), recommended the herb as the spice for life and used it in many of her formulas. The herb also has a long history in Arabic medicine for its healing properties.” There aren’t just medical uses of the plant there are many different magickal one.
Magickal Uses of Galangal Root
- Traditionally galangal root is used in court cases and situations where justice is needed.
- The root can be placed under the bed for love and passion.
- It can be placed in a mojo bag along with small pieces of silver to attract wealth.
- Burn the root on charcoal to help break curses and hexes.
- Place a piece with your tarot cards or other divination tools to help increase psychic connection.
- Put the powder or a small piece of the root under your doormat to protect your home.
If you’re interested please check out the Herbal Magick series here on this blog. As always if you value what you read here please remember to like, comment, and share !
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