Summary:

	Alpinia has been known in Europe for several centuries longer than its botanical origin. Traditional uses have included treatment of flatulence, dyspepsia, vomiting, gastrointestinal complaints, and sea sickness. In Brazil, where Alpinia zerumbet is called "colonia," it is used widely in folk medicine for the treatment of various diseases, including hypertension.
	No human scientific evidence available that qualifies for grading.

Safety:

Avoid if allergic/hypersensitive to alpinia, ginger or other members of the family Zingiberaceae. Use cautiously with diabetes or if taking hypoglycemic agents. Use cautiously with electrolyte imbalance and low blood pressure. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:

Decreased blood glucose levels, decreased blood pressure, diminished and abnormally slow movements, elevated red blood cell levels, increase in diuresis (water loss), increased sperm motility and sperm counts, increased urine production, increased weight gain of sexual organs, mild gastrointestinal complaints, prolonged sleep time, pruritis (intense itching), psychomotor excitation and writhing, reduced inotropic responses.

Possible interactions:

Antacids, antihypertensive drugs, diuretics, H2-blockers, hypoglycemic/hyperglycemic drugs, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and herbs and supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):

2-4g of the herb per day or one cup of the tea, 30 minutes before meals has been taken.

Children (younger than 18 years):

Not enough scientific data available.