#PlantBasedMedicine

In the aromatic world of Thai cuisine and traditional medicine, few herbs are as instantly recognizable or culturally resonant as galangal, known locally as “kha” (ข่า). Revered for its pungent, peppery flavor and unique fragrance, galangal has for centuries occupied a central place not just in kitchens, but also in the homes and herbal cabinets of Thailand. Today, this time-honored root stands at the fascinating crossroads between ancient wisdom and modern scientific inquiry, where laboratory research is increasingly validating uses that Thai healers and families have relied on for generations.

In the heart of Thai herbal tradition, Jun-Daeng—known scientifically as Dracaena loureiroi—stands as a fragrant emblem of healing, blending centuries of local knowledge with a new wave of scientific curiosity. Long cherished for its deep red heartwood and storied applications in folk medicine, this enigmatic plant, also called Chandan Daeng, Lakchun or Chan-Pha, is now drawing the attention of medical researchers interested in harnessing its potential for 21st-century health challenges, including cancer. Recent laboratory studies are beginning to validate the wisdom embedded in its historical use, shining new light on the intersection between practical folk therapy and targeted pharmacological action.