Lawn & Garden
Garlic has a loyal following among vegetable enthusiasts. Its absence from many vegetable recipes would be unthinkable for garlic lovers. This article covers growing garlic, selecting and serving garlic, garlic’s healing history, and the medicinal uses of garlic.
Garlic & Garlic Recipes Image Gallery
 Use the plumpest garlic cloves for cooking and plant the others. See more pictures of garlic and garlic recipes. |
Garlic is a hardy perennial that looks like an onion, except that the bulb is segmented into cloves. The flower head resembles a tissue paper dunce cap and is filled with small flowers and bulblets.
Common Name: Garlic
Scientific Name: Allium sativum
Hardiness: Very Hardy (will survive first frost)
Learn how to grow garlic in the next section. For more information about garlic, check out vegetable recipes, vegetable gardens, and gardening questions.
Growing Garlic
Garlic is essential in the kitchen for most garlic lovers. Make it an essential in your home vegetable garden.
 Garlic plants can be grown from bulbs purchased in a grocery store. |
To grow garlic, it is important to provide cool temperatures during the early growth period, but heat does not affect it during the later stages. Garlic can be planted in the spring in the North and in the fall in the South. Cloves or bulblets are used for planting, with the plump side facing downwards. The cloves require full sun and well-drained soil with high organic matter. It is recommended to plant them four to six weeks before the last frost date, 1 to 2 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart. Keeping garlic slightly dry, particularly when the bulbs are close to maturity, will enhance the flavor. The area should be cultivated regularly.
When the tops begin to dry, it is time to harvest the bulbs by digging up the entire plant. The plumpest cloves can be used for cooking, while the others can be planted. Garlic varieties are limited, and most can be grown from cloves bought at the grocery store.
It is crucial to know how to select and prepare garlic, given its popularity as a cooking ingredient. Most garlic varieties have a pungent odor and taste, but pink-skinned garlic has a sweeter taste and lasts longer than white garlic. Elephant garlic is milder and larger, and can be used like a leek. However, most garlic varieties can be used interchangeably in recipes. A Roasted Garlic Hummus recipe that features garlic is also available.
of the world’s most famous monuments. Today, garlic is still revered for its many benefits, from boosting the immune system to reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer. When choosing garlic, opt for loose heads with paper-white skins that are firm to the touch and free from damp or brown spots. Store it in a cool, dry place and check it regularly if you don’t use it often. To get the most flavor from garlic, use a garlic press for full-force flavor, or mince it for a milder taste. For a buttery flavor, bake whole cloves until tender. To neutralize the strong aroma of garlic on your breath, chew on fresh parsley, mint, or citrus peel. And to reap the full benefits of garlic’s healing compounds, let it sit in the air for about 10 minutes after crushing or cutting it. With its long history of use and many health benefits, garlic truly is a natural wonder.
The ancient Egyptians viewed garlic as a sacred item and believed that it could ward off evil spirits. They even placed garlic-shaped clay lumps in the tombs of pharaohs to protect them. Garlic bulbs were found in King Tut’s tomb centuries after his death. The Greeks and Romans also held garlic in high esteem, with Greek athletes and Roman soldiers consuming it for strength and courage. Hippocrates, the “father of medicine,” prescribed garlic for various ailments, including infections and digestive disorders. Garlic’s medicinal reputation continued into the Middle Ages, where it was used to treat the plague and leprosy. Despite its medicinal properties, garlic was not used in cooking in many historic cultures.
Throughout history, garlic has been used for medicinal purposes in various ways. The bulb could be squeezed for its juice and ingested, or it could be mashed into a paste and applied externally for different health issues. In ancient times, garlic was believed to bring good luck and protect against evil, including against supernatural beings like vampires and sorcerers. However, this belief is only present in European and American folklore, as other parts of the world do not associate garlic with repelling vampires.
Garlic gained importance in modern medicine during World War I when the Russians used it to treat wounds and infections. Additionally, garlic was used as a substitute for penicillin, which had limited availability. Today, garlic is still used by herbalists to treat a range of ailments, such as reducing cholesterol and heart disease risk, treating intestinal problems, and preventing colds. Scientific research has identified sulfur-containing compounds in garlic that have medicinal properties, including allicin and ajoene. When a garlic clove is cut, crushed, or chewed, these compounds are activated and form therapeutic compounds when they come into contact with oxygen.
Despite its many uses, garlic has had a mixed past. In some cultures, garlic was despised and even banned from sacred places due to its alleged negative effects on spiritual endeavors. In other places, it was seen as a food for commoners and was considered barbaric by the upper classes. However, today, garlic is widely accepted and appreciated for its many health benefits.
Looking for more information about garlic? Here are some options to explore: Vegetable Recipes, Nutrition, Vegetable Gardens, and Gardening. Keep in mind that this information is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide, Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher are responsible for any consequences that may arise from following this information. It’s always best to consult with your physician or healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.
If you’re interested in using garlic for medicinal purposes, one clove a day is often recommended. Garlic is rich in phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring compounds that plants produce. While garlic is generally safe for most adults, those with allergies to the lily family should avoid it. Additionally, individuals who are pregnant, have bleeding disorders, or are undergoing surgery or dental procedures should be cautious with their garlic intake. It’s always best to talk to your healthcare provider before using garlic as a supplement or in large amounts.
The Lowdown on Supplements
Fresh, naturally grown raw garlic is the best way to consume it. However, if you can’t include enough garlic in your diet, here’s what you need to know about supplements.
| Garlic for Ear Infection Treatment Garlic extract added to olive oil is a traditional remedy for ear infections. Herbalists suggest heating the oil slightly, adding a small amount of sliced garlic, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then straining it thoroughly before putting a few drops into the infected ear. The oil should not contain any garlic particles. Before using it on the ear, apply a few drops on the inside of your arm and wait for several minutes to ensure that it is not strong enough to burn your skin (due to the temperature of the oil or the amount of garlic essence present). If it passes the test, put a few small drops into the infected ear. Make a fresh batch for each treatment. This home remedy should be used with caution, and it is essential to consult a health-care provider before trying it, especially if you have had a ruptured eardrum in the past. |
Several research studies have shown that not all garlic supplements have the amount of allicin mentioned on the label when tested. This could be due to various factors like the type of garlic, growing conditions, fertilizers used, processing methods, and quality control during manufacturing. As a result, it becomes difficult to assess the research on garlic and determine which commercial garlic preparations have the compounds they claim to have and in what quantity.
Garlic supplements are generally made by slicing garlic and drying it at low temperatures to prevent the destruction of alliinase, the enzyme responsible for converting alliin into allicin. The dried garlic is then pulverized into a powder and formed into tablets. To meet the quality standards set by the U.S. Pharmacopeia, the powder must contain at least 0.3 percent alliin.
Since manufacturers process and label their supplements differently, it can be confusing to select the right garlic supplement. Some tablets contain alliin, which is converted to allicin, while others contain both alliin and allicin. Some supplement labels may mention “allicin potential” or “allicin yield,” which refers to the amount of allicin that could be formed when alliin is converted, not how much allicin is actually formed.
Most supplements are “enteric coated” to protect them from the acidic conditions in the stomach and ensure they do not dissolve until they reach the small intestine. However, tablets tested under these conditions produce only a little allicin and take a long time to dissolve. The “allicin release” measurement indicates how much allicin the supplement actually produces under conditions similar to those found in the digestive tract. Unfortunately, only a few manufacturers list this measurement on their labels.
When choosing a garlic supplement, look for the “standardization” statement on the label, which means that the product has a specific amount of a particular ingredient. However, even this is not a full guarantee. The USP seal indicates that the product follows set methods to ensure standardization.
While allicin is the most active compound in garlic, other active compounds are not standardized. Dried garlic powder is considered to have effects similar to those of fresh, crushed garlic, while other types of supplements may contain less allicin and other active compounds.
In conclusion, selecting the right garlic supplement can be challenging due to the various factors involved in manufacturing. It is essential to read the labels carefully and look for standardized products or ones with the USP seal.
If you’re in the market for a garlic supplement, make sure it’s standardized to contain at least 1.3 percent allicin. In the United States, pharmacy-grade garlic typically contains 0.3 percent (in powdered form) to 0.5 percent (in fresh or dried form) allicin. Avoid enteric-coated or time-release tablets, as these may not dissolve quickly enough in your digestive tract to fully utilize the allicin.
Looking for more information on garlic? Check out:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover delicious recipes featuring garlic.
- Nutrition: Learn how garlic fits into your overall nutrition plan.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a bountiful harvest of vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer your questions about everything that comes from the garden.
This information is provided solely for informational purposes and is not intended to offer medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action, or application of medication that results from reading or following the information contained in this text. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information should not replace the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. Before starting any treatment, readers should seek advice from their physician or other healthcare provider.
More on How to Use Garlic Medicinally
How Much Should You Take?
Several
large scientific organizations recommend different garlic dosages. The
Mayo Clinic cites the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy’s
recommendation for atherosclerosis prevention as 3 milligrams to 5
milligrams of allicin (3,000 micrograms to 5,000 micrograms of allicin),
or one clove or 0.5 gram to 1 gram of dried powder.
The World Health Organization recommends 2 grams to 5 grams of fresh garlic, 0.4 gram to 1.2 grams of dried garlic powder, 2 milligrams to 5 milligrams of garlic oil, 300 milligrams to 1,000 milligrams of garlic extract, or some other formulation that yields the equivalent of 2 milligrams to 5 milligrams (2,000 to 5,000 micrograms) of allicin daily.
Skip
the garlic supplements and enjoy the delicious flavor and aroma of fresh
garlic in your meals. This way, you’ll know you’re getting the most
potent allicin available. Consider:
- The
average garlic clove weighs about 3 grams. - The amount of alliin in an average clove ranges from 24 milligrams to 56 milligrams.
- A
standard clove will produce about 2.5 milligrams to 4.5 milligrams of
allicin per gram of fresh weight when crushed. This means you’ll get
7.5 milligrams to 13.5 milligrams of allicin from one typical clove
that weighs 3 grams.
| Control Your Waistline With Garlic Studies on rats indicate that feeding them allicin while on a sugar-rich diet can reduce their blood pressure, insulin levels, and triglyceride levels. A study published in the December 2003 issue of the American Journal of Hypertension showed other surprising results. The weight of the rats that were given allicin either remained stable or decreased slightly, while the weight of the rats in the control group increased. Further research is necessary, but this study demonstrates the wide-ranging benefits of garlic. |
The main point to remember about garlic supplements is to aim for about 5 milligrams of allicin per day. It’s important to use supplements that state the amount of “allicin release” rather than “allicin yield” or “allicin potential.” When reading labels, note that the amount of allicin is often listed in micrograms (mcg) rather than milligrams (mg). A supplement that contains 5,000 micrograms of allicin has 5 milligrams of allicin, meeting the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy’s recommendation of 3 to 5 milligrams of allicin. A supplement may contain 500 milligrams of dried garlic bulb, which is equal to 0.5 gram. However, dried powder contains only a small amount of allicin and other compounds make up the rest of the tablet.
One of the specific benefits of garlic is that it may help lower cholesterol, which is closely related to heart disease. Garlic is effective against cholesterol and can help to lower the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans and occurs when the arteries become narrowed or clogged and lose their elasticity. Blood flow to the heart diminishes, and the heart can no longer work properly. Garlic may play a big role in reducing the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke.
the overall risk of heart disease.
Arteries that are healthy resemble flexible tubes that are open and can contract and expand slightly as blood flows through them with every heartbeat. If the inner lining of these critical tubes is injured due to high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, tobacco smoke, diabetes, aging, or any other factor, the body produces a sticky substance to cover the damage and heal the wound. This process is similar to spackling a small hole in drywall. However, the sticky substance produced by the body causes fatty substances, cholesterol, proteins, calcium, inflammatory cells, and other “debris” in the blood to stick to the vessel walls, forming plaque. As plaque accumulates on the inner walls of the arteries, the arteries become less elastic and more prone to injury. The gradual buildup of plaque narrows the inner diameter of the artery and hampers blood flow. The plaque can also crack, and bits of plaque can become dislodged, further narrowing the artery. In some cases, the blood clot may completely block the flow of blood through the artery, leading to a heart attack or stroke.
While cholesterol is necessary for normal body processes, too much of the wrong kind can lead to heart disease. Dietary cholesterol is a fatty substance that breaks down into cholesterol when consumed. The body also makes cholesterol out of the solid fats in the diet. Genetics also play a role in how much cholesterol the body produces. The cholesterol is transported throughout the body via the bloodstream, with several types of blood cholesterol. The optimal blood lipid levels from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute for total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides are important factors in determining overall risk of heart disease, along with family history and smoking.
If you possess any risk factors, your chances of developing heart disease may increase. In such cases, you might have to maintain lipid levels lower than the standard ones mentioned. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider for further guidance.
The term LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein and is also known as “bad” cholesterol. As it flows through the arteries, it has the tendency to stick to the artery walls and create plaque, which narrows the arteries and makes them inflexible and hard. This can make it harder for the heart to pump blood and increase blood pressure. HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is known as “good” cholesterol because it eliminates excess blood cholesterol and carries it to the liver for elimination. Triglycerides are another form of lipid that can contribute to the thickening of artery walls. Although the body manufactures triglycerides, they can also be found in food. Garlic has been studied for its potential to lower cholesterol levels, but recent studies have tempered the initial enthusiasm. While it can significantly lower LDL and triglycerides in the short term, it does not alter HDL levels. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. It is important to seek the advice of a physician or other healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
According to research, garlic is most effective in reducing cholesterol levels in the first one to three months of treatment. However, after six months, no further reductions were observed. Despite this, high cholesterol levels can contribute to heart disease over time, so garlic may still be helpful when added to a cholesterol-lowering diet, but it cannot be relied on as the sole solution to high blood cholesterol levels. Further research is needed, particularly on the type of garlic used, as some evidence suggests that garlic must be cut or crushed to activate its health-promoting components. The products tested in various studies were inconsistent, with some using raw garlic, dried garlic, or garlic oil, and the raw garlic was sometimes cut, minced, or used whole. It is unknown whether garlic stops being effective after several months or whether other factors influenced the findings. Despite this, garlic still has a healing role to play, as it has been shown to have small reductions in blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol over short periods of time. The Mayo Clinic gives garlic a grade of “B” for this purpose, indicating that there is good scientific evidence to support its use. Although garlic may not be a magic bullet against cholesterol, it can have significant positive effects.
Supplements in the form of nonenteric-coated tablets containing dehydrated garlic powder (standardized to 1.3 percent alliin) have been found to reduce total cholesterol by up to 20 mg/dL for 4 to 12 weeks. However, it is unclear if the effects continue beyond 20 weeks. LDL levels may decrease by up to 10 mg/dL, while triglycerides may decrease by up to 20 mg/dL. However, HDL cholesterol levels are not significantly affected. The Mayo Clinic suggests that longer and more comprehensive studies are needed to provide stronger evidence of garlic’s cholesterol-reducing benefits. Garlic should not be used as a substitute for physician-prescribed medications to lower blood cholesterol levels, but it can be included in a cholesterol-lowering diet to enhance the flavor of meals that are low in fat and sodium.
Doctors often recommend lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol levels before or even along with drug therapy to minimize the risks of drug side effects. Garlic’s main drawback is the unpleasant odor it can give to breath and perspiration.
Different forms of garlic yield different results. Fresh cloves of garlic that are chopped or chewed may have the highest amount of allicin, but they have not been well studied yet. Fresh cloves of garlic that are swallowed whole have shown no therapeutic value in limited studies. Dehydrated garlic powder made into tablets or capsules often provides some therapeutic value, although allicin content varies within and among brands. Enteric-coated garlic tablets do not dissolve soon enough to release the allicin they contain, but they usually prevent garlic odor on the breath. Nonenteric-coated garlic tablets that contain 1.3 percent allicin are more effective than enteric-coated tablets, but they do cause garlic breath. Aged garlic extract contains ajoene, among other compounds, and studies have shown conflicting results in terms of health benefits. Garlic oil shows little therapeutic value in studies.
Looking for more information on garlic? Check out these resources:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover delicious recipes that feature garlic.
- Nutrition: Learn how garlic fits into your overall nutrition plans.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a bountiful harvest of vegetables this year.
- Gardening: Get answers to your questions about all things related to gardening.
Please note that this information is intended solely for informational purposes and is not meant to provide medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from reading or following the information contained in this article. This information does not replace the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. Before beginning any treatment, please consult with your physician or healthcare provider.
Garlic’s Heart Benefits
Thankfully, garlic packs a powerful punch in the fight against heart disease. In addition to allicin, a potent sulfur compound, garlic contains other antioxidants that prevent oxidation in the body. Selenium, a mineral found in garlic, is a key component of glutathione peroxidase, a powerful antioxidant that the body uses to protect itself. Garlic also contains vitamin C, which reduces the damage caused by LDL cholesterol, and quercetin, a phytochemical that offers health benefits. Additionally, garlic contains trace amounts of manganese, an important component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.
Garlic’s benefits don’t stop there—the vegetable can also slightly lower blood pressure, in addition to its antioxidant powers that keep the blood clean.
Oxidation is connected to oxygen, which is essential to all aspects of life. However, oxidation can be harmful, as seen when rust accumulates on metal objects and eventually destroys them. This rust is an example of oxidation. Similarly, when the body breaks down glucose for energy, free radicals are produced, which can damage cellular tissue. This damage can be compared to the “rusting out” of blood vessels and the bloodstream. Antioxidants can destroy free radicals, including those caused by environmental factors like UV rays, air pollutants, cigarette smoke, rancid oils, and pesticides. The body has a constant supply of antioxidants ready to neutralize free radicals, but sometimes the number of free radicals is too high, overwhelming the body’s antioxidant supply, especially if the person is not getting enough antioxidant nutrients. When free radicals damage the cells lining the arteries, the body tries to repair the damage by producing a sticky substance that attracts cholesterol and debris, leading to plaque formation. The more plaque in the arteries, the greater the risk to health. Additionally, free radicals can oxidize the cholesterol circulating through the arteries, damaging the lining and contributing to plaque buildup and narrowing of the arteries. Antioxidants can protect the arteries, and garlic may be one of the foods that helps protect heart health by preventing the oxidation of cholesterol. Calcium is essential for strong bones, teeth, and muscle function, among other things, but it can also be involved in plaque formation. However, reducing calcium intake is not the solution, as the body regulates how it uses calcium. Instead, people can prevent calcium-fueled plaque buildup by consuming less saturated and trans fat and eating more antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and garlic.
Garlic can prevent calcium from binding with other substances that contribute to plaque buildup. In a study conducted by the UCLA Medical Center, participants were given either a placebo or an aged garlic extract containing S-allylcysteine, a sulfur-rich compound found in garlic, for a year. The group that received the garlic extract had a significantly lower increase in their calcium score compared to the placebo group, suggesting that garlic may inhibit the rate of coronary artery calcification. If further studies confirm these results, garlic may become a valuable preventative tool for high-risk cardiovascular patients.
In addition to preventing plaque buildup, garlic may also help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Garlic chemicals widen capillary walls and reduce blood platelet stickiness, resulting in a slight reduction of blood pressure. Garlic may also increase the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes and enlarges blood vessels, improving blood flow throughout the body.
Overall, garlic appears to be a valuable ally in the fight against heart disease. Its antioxidant properties protect arteries from plaque buildup, while its ability to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow make it even more beneficial.
The natural defense mechanism found in nature fights off viruses. A guide to heart disease terms is provided for those who may be confused by the terminology used. The glossary includes terms such as antioxidant, arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, fibrinolysis, hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia, lipids, nitric oxide, and oxidation. For more information about garlic, there are several resources available, including vegetable recipes, nutrition, vegetable gardens, and gardening. It is important to note that this information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Garlic has been proven to have antimicrobial properties and can help prevent infections both inside and outside the body. This can be attributed to allicin, which has been used for centuries as a natural killer of bacteria and viruses.
Studies conducted in laboratories have verified that consuming raw garlic can be effective in fighting off bacteria and viruses. Raw garlic can combat a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungus, intestinal parasites, and yeast, as well as common cold and flu viruses. Cooking garlic destroys the allicin, which means that raw garlic must be consumed in order to prevent or combat infections.
A study published in the Phytotherapy Research journal in April 2005, conducted by researchers at the University of Ottawa, confirmed that garlic has antimicrobial properties. The researchers tested 19 natural health products that contained garlic, as well as five fresh garlic extracts, to determine their active compounds and antimicrobial activity. The substances were tested against three types of common bacteria: E. faecalis, which causes urinary tract infections; N. gonorrhoeae, which causes gonorrhea; and S. aureus, which is responsible for many infections common in hospitals. The products with the highest allicin content were the most effective in eradicating these bacteria.
Garlic is currently being studied to determine whether it can be used to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. There is hope that garlic may be able to eliminate these resistant microbes when other antibiotics cannot. A study conducted at the University of California, Irvine, demonstrated the antibacterial power of garlic juice. The juice was tested against a variety of potential pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, and it showed significant activity against the pathogens. Garlic juice retained its antimicrobial activity even when diluted up to 1:128 of the original juice.
Garlic may also help to maintain healthy gums. A study published in the Archives of Oral Biology journal in July 2005 concluded that garlic extract can inhibit disease-causing bacteria in the mouth, which may be beneficial in the fight against periodontitis, a severe gum disease. Healthy oral hygiene is important because bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream through bleeding gums, travel to the heart valve, and cause damage.
gram-positive yeast that can cause infections in humans. The study found that fresh garlic extract was effective in inhibiting the growth of C. albicans, suggesting that garlic may have potential as an antifungal agent.
Overall, research suggests that garlic may have a variety of health benefits, including its ability to enhance the effectiveness of certain antibiotics, reduce the severity of upper respiratory tract infections, and inhibit the growth of harmful microbes like C. albicans. While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of garlic for human health, these findings are promising.
The reason behind yeast infections was studied and it was found that a solution made from raw garlic and water can prevent wounds from getting infected. The extract showed great results against C. albicans in the first hour of exposure, but its effectiveness decreased over 48 hours, which is similar to traditional antifungal medications. The original text is preserved with the use of HTML tags, including an image tag showing a photo related to the topic.
Looking for more information on garlic? Check out these resources:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover delicious recipes featuring garlic.
- Nutrition: Learn about the nutritional benefits of garlic and how it fits into your overall health plan.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow your own vegetables, including garlic, for a bountiful harvest.
- Gardening: Get answers to your gardening questions and learn more about all things related to gardening.
It’s important to note that this information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and it’s important to seek advice from a physician or other healthcare provider before undertaking any course of treatment.
More on Garlic’s Infection-Fighting Benefits
External Treatments
Garlic has a variety of uses outside of the body. For example, applying a solution of raw garlic and water topically may help prevent infection in wounds (simply crush one clove of garlic and mix it with one-third cup of clean water, using the solution within three hours as it loses potency over time). Additionally, soaking your feet in a garlic solution several times a day may improve athlete’s foot.
Research conducted at Bastyr University, a natural health sciences school and research center near Seattle, has shown that a garlic oil extract can cure warts within two weeks of application. However, a water extract of garlic is much less effective. Garlic oil extract may also help dissolve corns.
While using a slice of garlic to remove warts may be an old folk remedy, garlic oil extract appears to be a more effective option. If the slice of garlic is too large or moves around, it may blister healthy skin around the wart (similar to wart-removing products containing acid).
It’s important to note that the phytochemical compounds in garlic are strong enough to cause chemical burns, so caution should be used when applying garlic externally. Additionally, garlic should not be used on young children. One way to protect the surrounding healthy skin is to apply petroleum jelly before applying the garlic.
While viruses are a small foe compared to cancer, research has shown that garlic may help prevent cancer. Learn more on the next page.
| Garlic vs. the Common Cold |
Herbalists recommend chewing garlic and holding it in your mouth before swallowing to get the most out of its bacteria-fighting allicin. This may be difficult for children or for those who find garlic too spicy. Alternatively, mince a clove and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the allicin to form, then put it into empty gelatin capsules (available at natural food stores).
Taking three cloves of garlic per day when you have a cold may help alleviate symptoms. If raw garlic bothers your stomach, take the capsules with food containing canola or olive oil. Other folk remedies for colds and chest congestion include using a garlic poultice or plaster.
To use garlic as a poultice, chop the garlic and wrap it in a clean cloth, washcloth, or paper towel. Pour warm water over the wrapped garlic and let it sit for a few seconds before lightly wringing it out. Place the wrapped garlic on the chest for a few minutes, then reheat it with warm water and place it on the lung area on the back for several minutes. Some herbalists suggest placing the poultice on the soles of the feet. However, be cautious not to let garlic come into direct contact with the skin, as cut garlic can cause burns.
Garlic may be helpful in preventing cancer, particularly stomach and colon cancers. Some studies have suggested that eating garlic, particularly unprocessed garlic, may reduce cancer risks. The National Cancer Institute has reviewed 37 studies involving garlic and sulfur-containing compounds, and 28 of those studies indicated garlic possessed some anticancer activity. While further studies are needed, consuming as few as two servings of garlic a week may help prevent colon cancer.
Please note that this information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Neither the author nor the publisher takes responsibility for any consequences resulting from using the information contained in this text. It is important to consult with a physician or other healthcare provider before beginning any course of treatment.
Garlic has been found to have anticancer benefits, with as few as two servings a week potentially helping to protect against colon cancer. Antioxidants and sulfur-containing agents, including allicin, are believed to contribute to these benefits by protecting cells from damage and reducing the production of cancer-causing compounds. Garlic may also help decrease H. pylori bacteria in the stomach, potentially preventing gastritis from evolving into cancer. Several studies have indicated a link between garlic intake and lower death rates from stomach cancer, and regular consumption may decrease cancer risk in general. However, garlic intake has not been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer, and the data on its effect on prostate and ovarian cancer are less definitive. Garlic has also been found to defend against skin cancer when applied topically to tumors, but it should not be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment. Overall, garlic has some amazing health-affirming properties despite its pungent odor.
If you want to benefit from garlic, you can easily incorporate it into your meals and health routine. For more information on garlic, you can explore recipes featuring this versatile ingredient, learn about its nutritional value, and even discover tips for growing garlic in your own vegetable garden. However, it’s important to note that this information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Neither the publisher nor the author assume any liability for the consequences of any treatment, exercise, or medication that may result from following the information presented here. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
FAQ
1. What is garlic and where does it come from?
Garlic is a vegetable that belongs to the onion family. It has a strong flavor and is often used as a seasoning in various dishes. Garlic is believed to have originated in Central Asia, but it is now grown in many parts of the world. China is currently the world’s leading producer of garlic.
2. What are the health benefits of eating garlic?
Garlic has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is believed to have numerous health benefits, including reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and boosting the immune system. Garlic is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of garlic.
3. How can I incorporate garlic into my cooking?
Garlic can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. It can be chopped or minced and added to sauces, soups, and stews. It can also be roasted or grilled and used as a topping for bread or added to salads. Some people even eat garlic raw. When cooking with garlic, it is important to not overcook it, as this can result in a bitter taste.
4. How can I store garlic?
Garlic should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. It can be stored in a mesh bag or a paper bag to allow for air circulation. Garlic should not be stored in the refrigerator, as it can cause the cloves to become soft and moldy.
5. Can I grow garlic at home?
Yes, garlic can be grown at home. It is best to plant garlic in the fall, as it needs a cold period to develop properly. Garlic can be planted in a sunny area with well-draining soil. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Garlic is ready to harvest when the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall over.
6. Are there any side effects of eating garlic?
Some people may experience digestive issues, such as bloating or gas, after eating garlic. Garlic can also cause bad breath and body odor. If you are taking medication, it is important to talk to your doctor before consuming large amounts of garlic, as it can interact with certain medications.
Brody is a skilled craftsman and gardening expert. From renovating living spaces to cultivating lush gardens, Brody’s knowledge and passion shine through, inspiring readers to embark on their own home improvement and gardening journeys with confidence.
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