Krachai Dam (Kaempferia parviflora / Thai Black Ginger) — Hermetica Encyclopedia
Asian Traditional Medicine · Southeast Asian

Krachai Dam (Kaempferia parviflora / Thai Black Ginger)

Provisional Moderate Scorebotanical

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Krachai dam (Kaempferia parviflora) is a Thai medicinal plant containing polymethoxyflavones that enhance mitochondrial energy production and nitric oxide synthesis. These compounds improve sexual function, cardiovascular health, and physical performance through increased blood flow and cellular energy metabolism.

Screened PMID Records
1
Reported Benefits
Pending
Synergy Review
At a Glance
CategoryAsian Traditional Medicine
GroupSoutheast Asian
Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate
Primary Keywordkrachai dam benefits
Krachai Dam close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in aphrodisiac, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
Krachai Dam (Kaempferia parviflora / Thai Black Ginger) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Enhances energy levels by improving mitochondrial function, combating fatigue naturally. - Boosts libido and sexual health by increasing blood flow and testosterone levels. - Supports cardiovascular health by reducing arterial stiffness and improving circulation. - Improves cognitive function by enhancing neurotransmitter activity, sharpening focus and memory. - Reduces inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways, promoting joint health. - Aids in weight management by increasing metabolic rate, supporting fat loss. - Strengthens the immune system by boosting antioxidant defenses, protecting against infections.

Origin & History

Krachai Dam growing in Southeast Asia — natural habitat
Natural habitat

Krachai Dam, also known as Thai Black Ginger, is a plant native to Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia. It is cultivated for its rhizomes, which are rich in bioactive compounds and used in traditional Thai medicine.

Traditionally, Krachai Dam is used in Thai medicine to enhance vitality and sexual health. It is culturally valued for its invigorating properties and is often consumed to boost energy.Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Kaempferia parviflora has been studied for its potential effects on male sexual health and energy levels, with some RCTs suggesting benefits. However, comprehensive meta-analyses are limited, and more research is needed.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"carbohydrates": "Approximately 60% of dry weight", "protein": "Around 8% of dry weight", "fiber": "Approximately 5% of dry weight"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"Vitamin B1": "0.1 mg per 100g", "Vitamin B2": "0.05 mg per 100g"}, "minerals": {"Potassium": "450 mg per 100g", "Calcium": "20 mg per 100g"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"flavonoids": "Polymethoxyflavones such as 5,7-dimethoxyflavone at 1-2% concentration", "phenolic acids": "Caffeic acid derivatives at trace levels"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of polymethoxyflavones is enhanced when consumed with fats due to their lipophilic nature."}

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Polymethoxyflavones in krachai dam, particularly 3,5,7,3',4'-pentamethoxyflavone, enhance mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activity and increase ATP synthesis. These compounds also stimulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, promoting vasodilation and improved blood circulation. The flavonoids inhibit phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) enzyme, maintaining elevated cGMP levels for sustained vascular smooth muscle relaxation.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies with 90-1,350mg daily doses show significant improvements in exercise performance and arterial stiffness within 8-12 weeks. A 12-week randomized controlled trial (n=26) demonstrated 8.5% improvement in VO2 max and reduced pulse wave velocity. Limited clinical evidence exists for sexual health benefits, with most research conducted in animal models. Current human studies are small-scale but consistently show cardiovascular and energy benefits.

Also Known As

Kaempferia parvifloraThai Black GingerBlack TurmericDumKrachai DumThai GinsengBlack Galangal

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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