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For many garlic enthusiasts, it is unimaginable to cook without including garlic in their vegetable recipes. This article discusses the cultivation of garlic, the selection and preparation of garlic, the medicinal and healing properties of garlic, and its historical use.
Garlic & Garlic Recipes Image Gallery
 Garlic bulbs with plump cloves should be used for cooking, while the others should be planted. Check out more pictures of garlic and garlic recipes. |
About Garlic
Garlic is a perennial plant that resembles an onion, except that its bulb is divided into individual cloves. The flower head resembles a dunce cap made of tissue paper and contains small flowers and bulbils.
Common Name: Garlic
Scientific Name: Allium sativum
Hardiness: Very Hardy (can withstand the first frost)
The next section will show you how to cultivate garlic.
Would you like to learn more about garlic? Check out:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover tasty recipes that incorporate garlic.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a bountiful crop of fresh vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer your questions on everything garden-related.
Growing Garlic
Most garlic enthusiasts know that garlic is a must-have ingredient in the kitchen. Make it a must-have in your home garden by growing it yourself.
 Garlic plants can be grown from bulbs purchased at the grocery store. |
During the early growth period, garlic requires cool temperatures, but it can tolerate heat during later stages. For optimal results, plant garlic in the North during spring and in the South during fall. Garlic can be grown from clove or bulblet, with the plump side facing downwards. The cloves require full sun and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Plant the cloves 1-2 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart, four to six weeks prior to the average last frost date. Keep the garlic slightly dry, especially when the bulbs are near maturity, to enhance flavor. Ensure the area is well-cultivated.
To harvest garlic, dig the entire plant when the tops start to dry out, indicating that the bulbs are mature. It takes 90 days for the plants to mature. Use the plumpest cloves for cooking and plant the others. Only a few varieties of garlic are available, and plants can be grown from cloves purchased from a grocery store.
In the next section, we will discuss selecting and preparing garlic. For more information about garlic, try browsing vegetable recipes or gardening tips.
Selecting garlic is crucial when using it as an ingredient. Most varieties of garlic have a similar pungent odor and bite, with pink-skinned garlic offering a slightly sweeter taste and longer shelf life than white garlic. Elephant garlic, which has larger cloves than regular garlic, is milder in taste and can be used like a leek. However, most varieties are interchangeable in recipes. A photo of Garlic is featured in the Roasted Garlic Hummus recipe.
If possible, opt for unwrapped garlic as it’s easier to inspect for quality compared to those covered in plastic. A paper-white exterior indicates freshness, and a firm head without any visible brown spots or moisture is the best choice. Don’t expect garlic powder to taste like fresh garlic as much of its flavor is lost in the manufacturing process. Garlic salt is high in sodium, with up to 900 milligrams per teaspoon, so it’s best to avoid it. Store garlic in a dry, cool, and dark area and check it regularly if you don’t regularly use it. Garlic can last for a few weeks or months, but any bad cloves should be removed without puncturing the remaining ones. If garlic starts to sprout, it’s still usable, but the flavor may be milder. To reduce the strong scent garlic leaves on your breath, try chewing fresh parsley, mint, or citrus peel. To benefit from garlic’s healing compounds, crush or cut it and let it sit for 10 minutes before using. Garlic has been a staple in various cultures for over 5,000 years, used for both physical and spiritual health. Its use as a healing agent continues to this day. The ancient Egyptians were the first to farm garlic, and it was even used as currency to pay workers building the pyramids.
The ancient Egyptians considered garlic to be sacred and believed it had the power to repel evil spirits. They even buried garlic-shaped clay lumps with dead pharaohs and preserved bulbs of garlic were found in King Tut’s tomb. Garlic was so highly regarded that the Egyptians would chew it before making a journey at night to create a radius of odor that they believed would prevent evil spirits from penetrating it. The ancient Greeks and Romans also valued garlic for its strength-enhancing properties, and Greek midwives hung garlic cloves in birthing rooms to repel evil spirits. Hippocrates, known as the “father of medicine,” prescribed garlic for a variety of ailments around 400 B.C. and it was used to treat wounds, fight infection, cure leprosy, and ease digestive disorders. Garlic’s medicinal reputation continued into the Middle Ages and it was used to prevent the plague and treat a long list of other ailments. Garlic was introduced to different regions around the world by explorers and migrating peoples, with the Spanish, Portuguese, and French introducing it to the Americas. While garlic is commonly used in cooking today, in many historic cultures it was used solely for medicinal purposes.
Throughout history, garlic has been used for medicinal purposes in various forms. It could be juiced and consumed internally or ground into a paste for external treatment. In the past, garlic was believed to bring good luck and protect against evil, especially vampires and sorcerers. However, this belief is only prevalent in European and American folklore. Garlic was not mentioned as a defensive tool against vampires in legends from other parts of the world.
During World War I, garlic was used by the Russians to treat battle wounds and fight infection. Medics used garlic-soaked moss as an antiseptic to pack wounds. Despite the discovery of penicillin in 1928, the general population still relied on garlic for treatment of health issues. Today, garlic is popular among herbalists for treating a variety of health problems, including intestinal problems, reducing heart-disease risk, and lowering blood cholesterol.
Scientists have identified sulfur-containing compounds in garlic that have important medicinal properties. When a garlic clove is cut, crushed, or chewed, sulfurous substances are activated, which form compounds with therapeutic properties when they come into contact with oxygen. The most researched and powerful compounds in garlic are allicin and ajoene.
While garlic has been revered for its medicinal properties, it has also been despised in certain times and places. King Alphonso of Castile ordered people to stay away from him if they had eaten garlic within the past month, and it was banned in certain sacred places in ancient India because it was believed to lure people away from spiritual endeavors. The British considered garlic rank, and even Shakespeare mentioned it with disdain in his plays.
If you’re interested in learning more about garlic, there are a few resources you can turn to. Vegetable Recipes can provide you with delicious recipes that incorporate garlic, while Nutrition can help you understand how garlic fits into your overall nutrition plan. If you’re interested in growing your own vegetables, Vegetable Gardens can help you achieve a bountiful harvest, and Gardening can answer any questions you have about gardening in general. However, it’s important to note that this information is meant solely for informational purposes and should not be taken as medical advice. Neither Consumer Guide nor the author take any responsibility for any consequences that may result from following the information in this article. Before starting any new treatment or making any changes to your diet or exercise routine, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider.
Garlic is often recommended for medicinal purposes, and consuming one clove per day can provide a variety of nutrients and phytochemicals that are beneficial to your health. While garlic is generally safe for most adults, people who are allergic to plants in the lily family should avoid it. Additionally, those who are pregnant, have bleeding disorders, or are taking blood thinners should be cautious about consuming large amounts of garlic. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of garlic, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your routine. And remember, if you’re going for a dental procedure, it’s best to avoid garlic beforehand to prevent excessive bleeding.
The Truth About Supplements
While fresh and naturally grown raw garlic is the best option, supplements can also provide benefits.
| Garlic for Ear Infections Garlic extract added to olive oil is a traditional remedy for ear infections. Herbalists recommend heating the oil slightly, adding a small amount of sliced garlic, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then thoroughly straining it before putting a few drops into the infected ear. It’s important that there are no garlic particles in the oil. Before applying the oil to the ear, place a few drops on the inside of your arm and wait several minutes to ensure that it isn’t strong enough to cause a burn (due to the oil’s temperature 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. Before trying this home remedy, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have or have had a ruptured eardrum. |
The research studies indicate that not all garlic supplements have the same amount of allicin as claimed on the label. The differences in garlic, growing conditions, fertilizer, processing methods, and quality control during manufacturing are some of the possible variables that affect the outcome. This poses a problem for assessing research on garlic, as it is difficult to determine whether the commercial garlic preparations contain the claimed compounds. Supplements are typically made by slicing and drying garlic at low temperatures to prevent the destruction of alliinase, which turns alliin into allicin. The powder is then formed into tablets, and the powder must contain at least 0.3 percent alliin to meet the standards set by the U.S. Pharmacopeia. Shopping for garlic supplements can be confusing due to the different processing and labeling methods. Some tablets contain only alliin, while others contain both alliin and allicin. The “allicin potential” or “allicin yield” statement on the label refers to the amount of allicin that could be formed, but not how much is actually formed. Most supplements are enteric-coated to prevent the destruction of alliinase in the stomach, but this also reduces the amount of allicin produced. The “allicin release” measurement is a better indicator of how much allicin the supplement produces under conditions similar to those in the digestive tract. When choosing a garlic supplement, look for the “standardization” statement on the label or the USP seal, but this is not always a guarantee. Dried garlic powder is considered the best supplement as it has similar effects to fresh, crushed garlic. Other types of supplements, such as oils or aged garlic extract, may contain less allicin and other active compounds than the dried powder.
If you are looking to purchase a garlic supplement, make sure it is standardized to have at least 1.3 percent allicin. In the US, pharmacy-grade garlic usually contains between 0.3 percent (powdered form) and 0.5 percent (fresh or dried form) allicin. Avoid enteric-coated or time-release tablets, as they may not dissolve quickly enough in your digestive tract to make use of the allicin.
For more information about garlic, try checking out vegetable recipes featuring garlic, learning about how garlic fits into your overall nutrition plan, or growing your own vegetable garden.
Note that this information is solely for informational purposes and is not intended to provide medical advice. The author, publisher, and editors of Consumer Guide take no responsibility for any consequences resulting from the use of this information. This information does not replace the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider, and before beginning any treatment, you should consult with a healthcare professional.
When considering how much garlic to take, there are several recommendations from scientific boards. The Mayo Clinic suggests taking 3 milligrams to 5 milligrams allicin (3,000 micrograms to 5,000 micrograms allicin) or one clove or 0.5 gram to 1 gram of dried powder to prevent atherosclerosis. 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.
Rather than relying on supplements, it is best to enjoy the flavor and aroma of fresh garlic in your cooking. One typical garlic clove weighs about 3 grams and will produce 7.5 milligrams to 13.5 milligrams of allicin when crushed. Studies on rats suggest that consuming allicin could help decrease blood pressure, insulin levels, and triglycerides, and even help control weight gain on a sugar-rich diet. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
The key takeaway is to aim for 5 milligrams of allicin per day. Look for supplements that specify “allicin release” and not “allicin yield” or “allicin potential.” Note that allicin is often measured in micrograms (mcg), not milligrams (mg). A supplement containing 5,000 micrograms of allicin has 5 milligrams of allicin, which meets the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy’s recommendation. However, a supplement with 500 milligrams of dried garlic bulb only contains 0.5 grams, which falls short of the World Health Organization’s recommendation for dried garlic powder. While garlic may cause bad breath, it can also help lower cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, and garlic can help combat it. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment or medication.
the risk of heart disease.
Arteries that are healthy can contract and expand slightly, like flexible tubes, as blood flows through them with each heartbeat. However, injuries to the inner lining of arteries caused by factors such as high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, tobacco smoke, diabetes, and aging can cause the body to produce sticky substances to cover the damage. This leads to the accumulation of plaque on the artery walls, which can cause the arteries to become less elastic and gradually narrow, hindering the flow of blood. Plaque can also crack or dislodge, leading to the formation of blood clots and further narrowing of the artery. This can result in heart attacks or strokes. While cholesterol is necessary for normal body processes, too much of the wrong kind can lead to heart disease. Genetics can also play a role in the amount of cholesterol produced in the body. The optimal blood lipid levels for heart health, as recommended by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, include total cholesterol levels of 200 mg/dL or less, LDL cholesterol levels of 100 mg/dL or less, HDL cholesterol levels of 40 mg/dL or more, and triglyceride levels of 150 mg/dL or less.
To reduce your risk of heart disease, it may be necessary to aim for lower lipid levels than the standard ones listed here if you have one or more risk factors. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate course of action.
LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is known as “bad” cholesterol because it can stick to artery walls and form plaque, which narrows the arteries and makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps eliminate excess cholesterol from the arteries and lower the risk of heart disease. Triglycerides, while not cholesterol, can also contribute to artery wall thickening and negatively affect heart health. While early studies suggested that garlic could lower cholesterol levels, more recent studies have tempered this enthusiasm, finding that garlic may lower LDL and triglycerides in the short term but does not significantly alter HDL levels. It’s important to note that this information is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Before making any changes to your diet or health routine, consult with a healthcare provider.
According to research, the first one to three months of garlic therapy has the greatest effect on lowering cholesterol. However, after six months, there are no further reductions in lipids. While garlic may be a helpful addition to a cholesterol-lowering diet, it cannot be relied on as the sole solution to high blood cholesterol levels. Longer-term studies and consideration of the type of garlic used are needed. Some evidence suggests that garlic must be cut or crushed to activate its health-promoting components. The effectiveness of garlic over several months and the influence of other factors in these studies remain unknown. Although garlic may not be a miracle cure for cholesterol, it has a healing role to play. Scientific evidence supports the use of garlic for small reductions in blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol over short periods of time. Garlic may not be a magic bullet against cholesterol, but it can have significant positive effects.
Non-enteric-coated garlic tablets containing dehydrated garlic powder (standardized to 1.3 percent alliin) may decrease total cholesterol up to 20 mg/dL for 4 to 12 weeks. LDL may also decrease by up to 10 mg/dL and triglycerides may decrease by up to 20 mg/dL, but HDL cholesterol levels do not appear to be significantly affected. However, the effects of garlic beyond 20 weeks are unclear. Mayo Clinic reports that longer and larger studies may provide stronger evidence of garlic’s cholesterol-lowering benefits. Although garlic may not replace medication prescribed by a physician, it is easy and inexpensive to include in a cholesterol-lowering diet. Lifestyle changes, such as incorporating garlic into one’s diet, may reduce the need for drug therapy and minimize the risks of side effects. The main disadvantage of garlic is its strong odor, which may be unpleasant for some people. Different forms of garlic have varying therapeutic effects and allicin content, with fresh garlic cloves being the highest in allicin but least studied. Dehydrated garlic powder made into non-enteric-coated tablets or capsules provides some therapeutic value, but the allicin content varies among brands. Enteric-coated garlic tablets may not dissolve soon enough to release the allicin they contain, while non-enteric-coated garlic tablets standardized to contain 1.3 percent allicin may be more effective, but they do cause garlic breath. Aged garlic extract and garlic oil have conflicting results in studies of health benefits.
Looking for more information on garlic? Check out these resources:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover tasty recipes that feature garlic.
- Nutrition: Learn how garlic fits into your overall nutrition plan.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a bountiful harvest of vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer all your questions about gardening and everything that comes from it.
Please note that this information is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to offer medical advice. Neither the author, publisher, nor Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd. take any responsibility for any possible consequences resulting from following the information provided, including any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, or medication application. This information does not replace the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. Before beginning any course of treatment, readers should seek the advice of their physician or other healthcare provider.
Garlic’s Heart Benefits
Fortunately, garlic contains a wealth of natural compounds that work to improve heart health. One of these is allicin, a potent sulfur compound. In addition to allicin, garlic contains other heart-disease-fighting antioxidants, including selenium, which is a component of glutathione peroxidase. This powerful antioxidant works with vitamin E to form a super defense system against oxidation. Garlic also contains vitamin C and quercetin, both of which are potent antioxidants that reduce the damage caused by LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, garlic contains trace amounts of manganese, which is an important component of an antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase. In addition to its antioxidant benefits, garlic can also help to slightly lower blood pressure.
Oxidation is linked to oxygen, which is an essential element in all aspects of our lives. However, oxidation can be harmful, as seen when rust accumulates on cars or garden tools, ultimately destroying the metal. This rust is an example of oxidation. Similarly, when the body breaks down glucose for energy, free radicals are produced. These free radicals begin to oxidize cellular tissue, causing damage. It’s like the bloodstream and blood vessels are “rusting out.” Antioxidants destroy free radicals, including those produced by environmental factors like ultraviolet rays, air pollutants, cigarette smoke, rancid oils, and pesticides. The body always maintains a supply of antioxidants to neutralize free radicals. Unfortunately, the number of free radicals can overwhelm the body’s antioxidant supply, especially if we don’t consume enough antioxidant-rich foods.
When free radicals harm the cells lining the arteries, the body produces a sticky substance to repair the damage. However, this substance attracts cholesterol and debris that build up within the arteries, causing plaque to form. The more plaque in the arteries, the higher the risk to one’s health. Additionally, free radicals can oxidize the cholesterol circulating through the arteries, damaging their lining and contributing to the buildup of plaque, narrowing and hardening the arteries. Antioxidants protect the arteries, and garlic’s ability to prevent cholesterol oxidation may be one way it promotes heart health.
Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, helping muscles function properly, reducing the risk of colon cancer, and other functions. However, calcium can also be involved in plaque formation. Avoiding calcium-rich foods won’t lower the risk of harmful plaque buildup. The body determines how it uses calcium, and if you avoid calcium, it will draw from its “savings account” (your bones) to make up for the deficit. This can weaken your bones and make them more prone to breakage and osteoporosis. Consume about 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily (an eight-ounce glass of fat-free milk has 300 milligrams of calcium) to maintain your bone bank. To prevent calcium-fueled plaque buildup in your blood vessels, eat less saturated and trans fats and consume more antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and garlic.
Garlic may help prevent calcium from binding with other substances in plaque, according to a study conducted at UCLA Medical Center. The study involved 19 people who were given either a placebo or an aged garlic extract containing S-allylcysteine, a sulfur-rich compound found in garlic, over the course of a year. The group that received the aged garlic extract had a significantly lower increase in calcium score (7.5%) compared to the placebo group (22.2%), indicating that garlic may help inhibit coronary artery calcification. If larger studies confirm these results, garlic may be used as a preventative tool for patients at high risk of cardiovascular problems.
Garlic may also help lower blood pressure by increasing blood flow to capillaries and reducing blood platelet stickiness. Preliminary studies suggest that garlic may increase the production of nitric oxide, a chemical that helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. Some of the sulfur-rich compounds in garlic help relax and enlarge blood vessels, as indicated in a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Garlic’s antioxidant ability also helps protect arteries from plaque formation and eventual blockage. Overall, garlic seems to be a valuable tool in the fight against heart disease.
Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. The author, publisher, and Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd. do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from reading or following the information contained in this article. It is important to seek the advice of a physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any course of treatment.
The article provides a glossary of heart disease terms, including definitions for arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, and hypercholesterolemia. It also explains the importance of antioxidants, nitric oxide, and fibrinolysis in maintaining heart health. Additionally, the article highlights the antimicrobial properties of garlic and its potential to prevent infections. However, the article emphasizes that it is not intended to provide medical advice and readers should consult their healthcare provider before undertaking any treatment.
Studies conducted in laboratories have proven that raw garlic has the ability to fight against both bacteria (including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria), fungus, intestinal parasites, and yeast, as well as common cold and flu viruses. However, cooking garlic destroys its infection-fighting component, allicin, which means that raw garlic should be used to prevent or treat infections.
A study published in Phytotherapy Research in April 2005 by researchers at the University of Ottawa confirmed garlic’s antimicrobial activity. They tested 19 natural health products containing garlic and five fresh garlic extracts for active compounds and antimicrobial activity against three types of common bacteria. The products with the highest allicin content were the most successful at eradicating the bacteria.
Researchers are now investigating whether garlic can fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria. A study conducted at the University of California, Irvine, tested garlic juice against several antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria and found that it exhibited significant activity against the pathogens even when diluted up to 1:128 of the original juice.
Moreover, garlic extract has been found to inhibit disease-causing bacteria in the mouth and may be valuable in fighting periodontitis, a serious gum disease, according to a study published in the July 2005 issue of Archives of Oral Biology. This is significant because untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which can cause infection and inflammation of the ligaments and bones supporting the teeth, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. Furthermore, disease-causing bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream through bleeding gums and damage the heart valve.
type of yeast that can cause infections in humans. The study found that fresh garlic extract was effective in inhibiting the growth of C. albicans, and that it worked better than two commonly used antifungal medications. These findings suggest that garlic may be a useful natural remedy for people with fungal infections. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment, as well as any potential side effects. Nonetheless, the results of these studies indicate that garlic has the potential to be a valuable addition to traditional medical treatments for a variety of conditions.
The reason behind yeast infections was studied, and an extract was found to be highly effective against C. albicans in the first hour of exposure. However, its effectiveness decreased over the 48-hour period of observation, which is similar to the declining effectiveness of traditional antifungal medications. Additionally, a mixture of raw garlic and water was discovered to be a potential solution for preventing wound infections.
Looking for more information about garlic? Check out:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover delicious recipes featuring garlic.
- Nutrition: Learn about the nutritional benefits of garlic and how it can fit into your overall diet plan.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a bountiful harvest of healthy vegetables this year.
- Gardening: Get answers to your questions about all things related to gardening.
This information is provided solely for informational purposes and is not intended to provide medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., nor the author or publisher are responsible for any potential consequences resulting from reading or following the information contained in this material. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine and should not be considered a replacement for advice from a licensed healthcare provider. Before pursuing any course of treatment, readers should seek the advice of their physician or other healthcare provider.
More About Garlic’s Benefits for Fighting Infections
External Treatments
Garlic offers many benefits when used topically on the body. Applying a raw garlic and water solution to wounds may prevent infection. (To make the solution, crush one clove of garlic and mix it with one-third cup of clean water. Use the solution within three hours, as it will lose potency over time.) Traditionally, a garlic solution used as a footbath several times a day is believed to improve athlete’s foot.
A study conducted at Bastyr University, a natural health sciences school and research center near Seattle, showed that a garlic oil extract cured all warts it was applied to within two weeks. In the same study, the garlic oil extract also proved useful in dissolving corns.
Garlic oil extract appears to work better than tying or taping a slice of garlic to a wart, which can blister the surrounding healthy skin. However, garlic’s phytochemical compounds can cause chemical burns, so always use externally with caution and avoid use on young children. To protect the surrounding healthy skin, smear petroleum jelly on it before applying garlic.
While viruses are a small foe in comparison to cancer, the following page explores research on using garlic to prevent this dreaded disease.
| Flu Fighter: Garlic vs. the Common ColdHerbalists recommend chewing garlic and holding it in your mouth for a while before swallowing to get the optimal dose of bacteria-fighting allicin. However, this may be difficult for children or those who find garlic too spicy. As an alternative, mince a clove, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow for allicin formation, and then put it into empty gelatin capsules (available in the herb section of a natural foods store).
Taking three cloves a day during a cold may help you feel better. If raw garlic upsets your stomach, take the capsules with food containing a little canola or, preferably, olive oil. Other folk remedies for fighting colds and chest congestion include using a garlic poultice or plaster. To make one, To make a garlic poultice, place chopped garlic in a clean cloth, thin washcloth, or paper towel and fold it over to enclose the garlic. Pour very warm water over the wrapped garlic, let it sit for a few seconds, and then lightly wring it out. Place the wrapped garlic on the chest for several minutes and then reheat with warm water and place on the back over the lung area for several minutes. Some herbalists suggest putting the poultice on the soles of the feet. However, be careful not to let garlic come into direct contact with the skin as it can result in a burn due to the powerful nature of cut garlic. For more information on garlic, check out recipes featuring garlic, how garlic fits into your nutrition plans, growing vegetables in your own garden, and answers to all your gardening questions. Research has shown that garlic may help prevent cancer. Some studies using cancer cells in the laboratory, as well as some studies with animals and people, have suggested that eating garlic, especially unprocessed garlic, might reduce the risk of stomach and colon cancers. The National Institutes of Health’s National Cancer Institute has also found that garlic has some anticancer activity, especially toward prostate and stomach cancer. However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings as the current studies were merely observational. As few as two servings a week of garlic may prevent colon cancer. This information is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is important to seek the advice of a physician or other health care provider before undertaking any course of treatment. Research reviewed by the National Cancer Institute suggests that even small amounts of garlic consumption can have anticancer benefits. Eating just two servings of garlic per week may be enough to protect against colon cancer. Clinical trials will be necessary to determine the extent of garlic’s cancer-fighting abilities. Garlic contains antioxidants and sulfur-containing agents, such as allicin, which protect cells from damage that can lead to cancer. Allicin also appears to protect colon cells from toxic cancer-causing agents. Garlic may also help prevent gastritis from turning into stomach cancer by decreasing the H. pylori bacteria in the stomach. Garlic intake has been associated with lower death rates from stomach cancer in studies conducted in China, Italy, and Korea. The amount and frequency of garlic consumption may determine its ability to decrease cancer risk, with substantial consumption over three to five years showing the greatest potential for reducing the risk of certain cancers. While garlic intake may not reduce the risk of breast cancer, it may slightly decrease the risk of ovarian cancer. Topical application of garlic may help defend against skin cancer, but it is important to seek professional medical treatment for any concerning skin lesions. Despite its pungent odor, garlic offers a multitude of health benefits. If you want to benefit from garlic, you can incorporate it into your meals and health routine without any guilt. If you want to learn more about garlic, you can check out Vegetable Recipes for delicious recipes that include garlic, Nutrition to understand how garlic fits into your overall nutrition plans, Vegetable Gardens to grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year, and Gardening to get answers to all things that come from the garden. However, it’s important to note that this information is solely for informational purposes and is not intended to provide medical advice. The editors, author, and publisher do not take responsibility for any possible consequences from reading or following the information contained in this article. It’s recommended to seek the advice of your physician or other health care provider before undertaking any course of treatment. FAQ1. What is garlic? Garlic is a plant that belongs to the onion family. It has a bulbous root that is commonly used in cooking for its distinctive flavor. The plant is also known for its health benefits, which include lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. 2. Where is garlic grown? Garlic is grown all over the world, but it originated in central Asia. It is now cultivated in many countries, including China, India, and the United States. The largest producer of garlic is China, which accounts for over 80% of the world’s production. 3. How do you store garlic? Garlic should be stored in a cool, dry place. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a month, but it will last longer if stored in the refrigerator. Whole bulbs of garlic should be stored in a paper bag or mesh bag to allow air circulation. 4. How do you cook with garlic? Garlic can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. It can be chopped or minced and added to sauces, soups, and stews. Whole cloves of garlic can be roasted or sautéed and used as a topping for bread or mixed into mashed potatoes. Garlic can also be used to flavor oils and vinegars. 5. Is garlic good for your health? Garlic has been shown to have a number of health benefits. It can help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and boost the immune system. Garlic has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which may help to prevent infections. 6. Can garlic be used as a natural remedy? Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. It has been used to treat infections, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. Garlic has also been used to treat high blood pressure and to boost the immune system. 7. What are the side effects of consuming garlic? Consuming garlic can cause bad breath, body odor, and heartburn. It can also cause allergic reactions in some people. In rare cases, consuming large amounts of garlic can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 8. How much garlic should you consume per day? The recommended daily intake of garlic is 1-2 cloves per day. Consuming more than this amount is not recommended, as it can cause side effects. It is important to note that garlic supplements can be much more potent than fresh garlic, so it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking them. 9. Can garlic be used to repel insects? Garlic has been shown to repel a variety of insects, including mosquitoes and ticks. It can be used as a natural insecticide by mixing chopped garlic with water and spraying it on plants or around the house. Garlic can also be used as a natural flea repellent for pets. 10. What are some recipes that use garlic? Garlic can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from soups and stews to pasta dishes and stir-fries. Some popular recipes that use garlic include garlic bread, garlic shrimp, and garlic mashed potatoes. Garlic can also be used to flavor sauces, dressings, and marinades. 11. Can garlic be used as a seasoning? Garlic is a popular seasoning that is used in many different types of cuisine. It can be used to add flavor to meats, vegetables, and grains. Garlic powder and garlic salt are also commonly used as seasonings. Garlic can be used in both fresh and dried forms, depending on the recipe.  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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