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Garlic is a beloved vegetable with a faithful following. Garlic enthusiasts can’t imagine omitting garlic from most vegetable recipes. In this article, we will discuss growing garlic, choosing and serving garlic, the medicinal history of garlic, and the therapeutic uses of garlic.
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 For cooking, use the plumpest garlic cloves and plant the others. Check out more pictures of garlic and garlic recipes. |
About Garlic
Garlic is a hardy perennial that resembles an onion, but the bulb is made up of cloves. The flower head looks like a paper dunce cap and contains small flowers and bulblets.
Common Name: Garlic
Scientific Name: Allium sativum
Hardiness: Very Hardy (will survive first frost)
In the following section, we will demonstrate how to grow garlic.
For more information on garlic, try:
- Vegetable Recipes: Find tasty recipes that feature garlic.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a bountiful harvest of great vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer your questions about everything that comes from the garden.
Growing Garlic
Most garlic lovers know that garlic is a must-have ingredient in the kitchen. Make it a must-have in your home vegetable garden.
 Garlic plants can be grown from bulbs purchased at the grocery store. |
During the early growth stage, garlic requires a cool temperature, but it is not affected by heat in later stages. In the North, it should be planted in the spring, while in the South, fall planting yields good results. Garlic is grown from cloves or bulblets, which should be planted with their plump side facing down. The cloves need full sun and well-worked soil that is high in organic matter and drains well. Plant them 1 to 2 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart, four to six weeks before the average date of last frost. Keep the area cultivated and slightly dry, especially when the bulbs are nearing maturity, to improve their flavor.
To harvest garlic, dig the entire plant when the tops start to dry, which indicates that the bulbs are mature. It takes 90 days for mature plants to grow from planting. Use the plumpest cloves for cooking and plant the others. Few varieties of garlic are available, so grow plants from cloves purchased from the grocery store.
In the following section, we will discuss how to select and prepare garlic. If you want more information about garlic, check out Vegetable Recipes, Vegetable Gardens, and Gardening.
Selecting Garlic
It is important to know how to properly select and prepare garlic since it is such a popular ingredient. Most varieties of garlic have a pungent odor and bite, but pink-skinned garlic tastes a little sweeter and lasts longer than white garlic. Elephant garlic is a large-clove variety that is milder in flavor than regular garlic and should be used like a leek. However, most varieties can be used interchangeably in recipes.
 Garlic is featured in the Roasted Garlic Hummus recipe. |
If possible, opt for unpeeled garlic as it is easier to check for quality compared to those packaged in cellophane. The appearance of the garlic can give you an idea of its freshness; look for paper-white skins. When selecting garlic, choose one that is firm to the touch and without any visible damp or brown spots.
Garlic powder does not taste the same as fresh garlic as much of the flavor is removed during processing. However, garlic powder may still contain some active components. Avoid using garlic salt as it contains high amounts of sodium, up to 900 milligrams per teaspoon.
Store garlic in a cool, dark, dry area and check it regularly if you don’t use it often. Garlic may last a few weeks or a few months. Remove any cloves that have gone bad, but be careful not to damage any remaining cloves as this may cause them to spoil faster. Sprouted garlic is still safe to use, but it may have a milder flavor. Simply remove the tough, green sprout.
To get the full flavor of garlic, use a garlic press as it is ten times stronger in flavor than minced garlic. Use minced garlic for a milder taste, and bake whole cloves for a buttery flavor. Rub the bottom of a salad bowl with a cut clove for a delicate touch of garlic in salads or add freshly crushed garlic for more flavor. To neutralize the strong odor garlic leaves on your breath, chew on fresh parsley, mint, or citrus peel.
To benefit from garlic’s healing compounds, cut or crush garlic and let it sit in the air for about 10 minutes before using. This allows the garlic to interact with oxygen and form beneficial substances.
Garlic has been used for physical and spiritual health for more than 5,000 years. It was used by the ancient Egyptians to improve strength and ward off illness during the building of the pyramids. Garlic has many culinary and healing properties, making it a natural wonder.
The ancient Egyptians considered garlic to be a sacred item and believed it had the power to repel evil spirits. They even buried garlic-shaped lumps of clay with their dead pharaohs to keep them safe. Garlic bulbs were discovered in King Tut’s tomb centuries after his death. The Greeks and Romans also believed in garlic’s strength-enhancing properties. Hippocrates, the “father of medicine,” used garlic to treat various ailments. Garlic was also used in the Middle Ages to prevent the plague and treat leprosy. Although garlic was primarily used for medicinal purposes, it was later introduced to various regions around the world and became a popular cooking ingredient. Despite its numerous health benefits, many ancient cultures did not use garlic for cooking. If our ancestors were to visit us today, they would likely be surprised by our general lack of appreciation for garlic’s healing qualities.
In the past, garlic was used for medicinal purposes in various ways. The juice of the bulb was extracted for internal use, while the bulb was ground into a paste for external treatment. Garlic was also believed to bring good luck and protect against evil, particularly against supernatural beings like sorcerers and vampires. However, this belief is only found in European and American folklore. Garlic was first used extensively in modern medicine during World War I when the Russians used it to treat battle injuries and infections. Even after the discovery of penicillin, people continued to use garlic for various health problems. Today, garlic is popular among herbalists for its medicinal properties, which have been supported by scientific research. Garlic contains sulfur compounds that have therapeutic properties, and the most researched compounds are allicin and ajoene. Although garlic had a mixed past, being despised by some cultures and even considered barbaric, it has found its way to modern times as a potent and versatile remedy.
Looking for more information on garlic? Here are some resources to consider: Vegetable Recipes for tasty dishes featuring garlic, Nutrition to learn how garlic fits into your overall health plan, Vegetable Gardens to grow a bountiful harvest of fresh vegetables, and Gardening for answers to all your gardening questions. However, please note that this information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide nor the author take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the use of this information. It is always recommended to seek the advice of a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or medication.
If you’re interested in using garlic for its medicinal purposes, consuming one clove a day is typically recommended. Garlic is rich in phytochemicals that offer a range of health benefits beyond vitamins and minerals. While generally safe for most adults, individuals who are allergic to plants in the lily family or have bleeding disorders should exercise caution when consuming large amounts of garlic. It’s also important to speak with a healthcare provider before incorporating garlic into your health plan. Additionally, as garlic can thin the blood, it’s recommended to avoid consuming it before dental procedures.
The Truth About Supplements
While fresh, naturally grown raw garlic is preferred, supplements can be an option if you’re not able to consume enough in your diet.
| Ear Infection Treatment Using Garlic Garlic extract mixed with olive oil has been used as a remedy for ear infections for centuries. Herbalists suggest slightly warming the oil, adding a small amount of sliced garlic, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then thoroughly straining it before putting a couple of drops into the infected ear. There must be no garlic particles in the oil. Before applying the oil to the ear, test a few drops on the inside of your arm and wait several minutes to ensure it’s not hot enough to burn your skin (either from the temperature or the amount of garlic essence). If it passes the test, apply a few small drops to the infected ear. Make a fresh batch for each use. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting this home remedy, particularly if you have a history of a ruptured eardrum. |
According to various research studies, not all garlic supplements have consistent amounts of allicin as claimed on their labels due to multiple variables, such as the type of garlic, growing conditions, fertilizer amount, processing methods, and quality control during manufacturing. This presents a challenge in determining the effectiveness of garlic supplements and what compounds they contain. Typically, supplements are created by slicing and drying garlic at low temperatures, pulverizing it, and forming it into tablets. To meet U.S. Pharmacopeia standards, the powder must contain at least 0.3% alliin. However, different manufacturers label and process their supplements differently, making it difficult for consumers to choose. Some tablets contain only alliin, while others contain both alliin and allicin. Additionally, some labels have an “allicin potential” statement, which refers to the amount of allicin that could be formed when alliin is converted. Most tablets are enteric-coated to avoid destruction by stomach acid, but they often produce little allicin and take too long to dissolve. The “allicin release” measurement is more accurate, but few manufacturers list it on their labels. Consumers should look for a “standardization” statement on the label, but even that isn’t always a guarantee. Dried garlic powder is considered the best type of supplement, while other types contain less allicin and other active compounds.
To ensure that you are getting a quality garlic supplement, make sure it is standardized to contain a minimum of 1.3 percent allicin. In the US, pharmacy-grade garlic typically contains only 0.3 percent (powdered form) to 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 allow for the full benefits of the allicin.
For more information about garlic, check out vegetable recipes that feature garlic, learn about how garlic can fit into your overall nutrition plans, grow your own vegetable garden, or get advice on all things gardening.
Please note that this information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Neither the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences resulting from following the information contained herein. Before starting any new treatment or making changes to your current health regimen, always consult with your physician or healthcare provider.
Large scientific boards have made recommendations regarding garlic dosage. The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy suggests a daily intake of 3 milligrams to 5 milligrams of allicin (3,000 micrograms to 5,000 micrograms allicin) for the prevention of atherosclerosis, 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.
Rather than relying on supplements, consider adding fresh garlic to your meals for the most potent source of allicin. On average, one clove of garlic weighs about 3 grams and contains 24 milligrams to 56 milligrams of alliin. When crushed, a standard clove can produce 2.5 milligrams to 4.5 milligrams of allicin per gram of fresh weight, meaning one typical clove that weighs 3 grams can yield 7.5 milligrams to 13.5 milligrams of allicin.
Studies on rats have shown that allicin can decrease blood pressure, insulin levels, and triglyceride levels. Additionally, a study published in the American Journal of Hypertension in December 2003 found that rats fed allicin on a sugar-rich diet maintained stable or slightly decreased weight, while rats in the control group gained weight. While more research is needed, these findings suggest that garlic may have a variety of potential benefits.
The main points to remember when taking garlic supplements are to aim for around 5 milligrams of allicin per day and to choose supplements that state the amount of “allicin release” rather than “allicin yield” or “allicin potential.” It is important to note that the amount of allicin is often listed in micrograms (mcg) rather than milligrams (mg) on supplement labels. For example, a supplement containing 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. Additionally, a supplement may contain 500 milligrams of dried garlic bulb, which is equal to 0.5 gram. However, this falls into the low end of the World Health Organization’s recommendation for dried garlic powder, as dried powder only contains a small amount of allicin. One of the benefits of taking garlic supplements is that it may help lower cholesterol, which is closely related to heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, and garlic can play a role in reducing the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and other related issues. However, it is important to seek medical advice before starting any course of treatment.
the overall risk for heart disease.
Healthy arteries are flexible tubes that can contract and expand slightly as blood flows through them. However, injuries caused by factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, tobacco smoke, diabetes and aging can damage the inner lining of these tubes. When this happens, the body produces a sticky substance to cover the damage, similar to how spackle is used to patch a hole in drywall. Unfortunately, the spackle-like substance produced by the body causes fatty substances, proteins, calcium, inflammatory cells, and other debris to stick to the vessel walls, forming plaque. Over time, the plaque accumulates on the inner walls of the arteries, making them less elastic and narrowing the inner diameter of the artery, which hampers blood flow.
Sometimes, the plaque can crack or become dislodged, causing the body to respond by sending platelets to form a clot around the plaque, further narrowing the artery. In severe cases, the blood clot may completely block the flow of blood through the artery, and cells that rely on a steady flow of oxygen from the blood can die. When this happens in a coronary artery, it’s called a heart attack. If it happens in a vessel that feeds the brain, it’s a stroke.
While cholesterol is necessary for normal body processes, too much of the wrong kind can lead to trouble. Dietary cholesterol, found in meat, eggs, and cheese, is broken down by the body to be digested, and some of it is turned back into cholesterol. The body also produces cholesterol from the solid fats in your diet. Genetics also play a role in how much cholesterol the body produces. Cholesterol is transported throughout the body via the bloodstream, and there are several types of blood cholesterol, with optimal levels recommended by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. However, cholesterol levels are just one of several risk factors for heart disease, which also includes family history and smoking.
To decrease your chances of developing heart disease, it may be necessary to aim for lower lipid levels than the standard ones provided if you have one or more risk factors. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol, has a tendency to stick to artery walls and form plaque, narrowing the arteries and making it harder for the heart to pump blood, leading to increased blood pressure. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol, works to eliminate excess blood cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease. Triglycerides, another lipid, can also contribute to thickening artery walls if there are too many in the blood. While garlic supplements have been advertised to improve heart health by lowering cholesterol, recent studies have tempered initial enthusiasm about its effectiveness. Garlic may lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the short term, but it does not alter HDL levels. As with any medical concerns, always seek the advice of a physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any course of treatment.
According to research, garlic is most effective in lowering cholesterol during the first one to three months of treatment. However, after six months, no further reduction in lipid levels is seen. Although garlic can be a helpful addition to a cholesterol-lowering diet, it cannot be relied upon as the sole solution to high blood cholesterol levels. Further research is needed, including longer-term studies and consideration of the type of garlic used. There is evidence that garlic must be cut or crushed to activate its health-promoting components, but the products tested in various studies were inconsistent. While garlic may not be a miracle cure for cholesterol, it does have a healing role to play. A 2005 Mayo Clinic report gives garlic a grade of “B” for small reductions in blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol over short periods of time. Although garlic may not be a magic bullet against cholesterol, it can have significant positive effects.
Supplements of garlic powder tablets (standardized to 1.3 percent alliin) that are not enteric-coated may lower total cholesterol by up to 20 mg/dL for 4 to 12 weeks. However, the effects beyond 20 weeks are unclear. LDL and triglycerides may decrease by up to 10 mg/dL and 20 mg/dL, respectively, but HDL cholesterol levels are not significantly affected. While studies of longer duration and involving more participants may provide stronger evidence of garlic’s cholesterol-lowering benefits, it is not a substitute for medications prescribed by a physician to lower blood cholesterol levels. Nonetheless, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol levels before or along with drug therapy to minimize the risks of drug side effects. Garlic’s main disadvantage is the odor it gives to breath and perspiration. Although garlic should not replace prescribed medications, including it more often in a cholesterol-lowering diet is easy, inexpensive, and enhances the flavor of low-fat and low-sodium meals. Garlic supplements come in different forms, and their effectiveness varies. Fresh cloves of garlic may have the highest amount of allicin, but they have not been well studied. Swallowing fresh cloves of garlic whole showed no therapeutic value in limited studies. Dehydrated garlic powder made into tablets or capsules often provided some therapeutic value, but allicin content varies within and among brands. Enteric-coated garlic tablets prevent garlic odor on the breath but may not dissolve soon enough to release the allicin they contain. Nonenteric-coated garlic tablets that are standardized to contain 1.3 percent allicin may be more effective than enteric-coated tablets but cause garlic breath. Aged garlic extract and garlic oil have shown little therapeutic value in studies.
Looking for more information about garlic? Check out some of these resources: Vegetable Recipes for some delicious recipe ideas featuring garlic, Nutrition to learn about how garlic can fit into your overall nutrition plan, Vegetable Gardens for tips on growing your own garlic and other vegetables, and Gardening for answers to all your questions about gardening. It is important to note that this information is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide, Publications International, Ltd., the author, and publisher are not responsible for any consequences that may result from following the information provided. It is always recommended to seek the advice of a physician or other healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment or medication.
Garlic has many health benefits, particularly when it comes to heart health. It contains potent sulfur compounds like allicin, as well as powerful antioxidants like selenium that help prevent oxidation in the body. These antioxidants work together with other compounds in garlic, such as vitamin C and quercetin, to help reduce the damage that LDL cholesterol can cause. Garlic also contains trace amounts of manganese, an important component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. In addition to its antioxidant properties, garlic can also slightly reduce blood pressure.
Oxidation is connected to oxygen, an essential element for all aspects of our lives, but why is it harmful? When rust accumulates on metal, such as a car or garden tools, it destroys the material. This rust is an example of oxidation. Similarly, when the body breaks down glucose for energy, it produces free radicals that start oxidizing and damaging cellular tissue. It’s as though your bloodstream and blood vessels are rusting out. Antioxidants destroy free radicals, including those caused by environmental factors like ultraviolet rays, air pollutants, cigarette smoke, rancid oils, and pesticides. The body always has a supply of antioxidants ready to neutralize free radicals. Unfortunately, sometimes the number of free radicals can surpass the body’s antioxidant supply, particularly if we’re not getting enough antioxidant nutrients.
When free radicals damage the cells that line the arteries, the body attempts to repair the damage by producing a sticky substance that attracts cholesterol and debris, leading to progressive plaque formation. The more plaque in your arteries, the greater your health risks. In addition, free radicals can oxidize cholesterol circulating through your arteries, damaging the lining of the arteries, which significantly contributes to plaque buildup and the narrowing and hardening of the arteries. Therefore, arteries benefit greatly from the protection provided by antioxidants, and garlic’s ability to stop cholesterol oxidation may be one of the many ways it protects heart health.
Calcium is necessary for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, helping your muscles work properly, and reducing your risk of colon cancer, among other functions. However, you don’t want calcium involved in plaque formation. Cutting back on calcium won’t lower the risk of this harmful process. Your body determines how it uses calcium, and avoiding calcium-rich foods will result in your body drawing calcium out of its “savings account” (your bones) to make up for the deficit. This can leave you with weakened bones that are more susceptible to breakage and osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become very thin and break easily. To preserve your calcium bone bank, consume around 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day. Prevent calcium-fueled plaque buildup in your blood vessels by eating fewer saturated and trans fats and more antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and garlic.
Garlic may prevent calcium from binding with other substances that form plaque. In a study conducted at UCLA Medical Center, 19 people were given either a placebo or an aged garlic extract containing S-allylcysteine, a sulfur-rich compound found in garlic, for one year. The group that received aged garlic extract had a much lower increase in their calcium score (7.5 percent) than the placebo group (22.2 percent). These results suggest that aged garlic extract may help inhibit the rate of coronary artery calcification. If further studies confirm these findings, garlic may become a useful preventative tool for patients at high risk of future cardiovascular problems.
Research indicates that garlic may improve blood pressure by increasing blood flow to the smallest blood vessels, known as capillaries. The chemicals in garlic cause the walls of capillaries to open wider and reduce the ability of blood platelets to stick together and cause blockages. Garlic may also increase the production of nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax and allow blood to flow more freely. Sulfur-rich compounds found in garlic can help relax and enlarge blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow throughout the body.
Overall, garlic seems to be a valuable weapon in the fight against heart disease. Its antioxidant ability helps protect arteries from plaque formation and eventual blockage, and it may also increase nitric oxide in vessels and lower blood pressure. Garlic keeps out not only cholesterol and oxidation, but also other harmful substances in the body. However, this information is solely for informational purposes and is not intended to provide medical advice. It is important to seek the advice of a physician or other healthcare provider before undertaking any course of treatment.
The article discusses the glossary of heart disease terms, including arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperlipidemia. It also covers the benefits of garlic in preventing infections due to its antimicrobial properties. The article emphasizes the importance of seeking medical advice before undertaking any treatment. It reminds readers that the information provided is solely for informational purposes and should not replace the advice of a physician or healthcare provider.
Studies conducted in laboratories have confirmed that raw garlic possesses both antibacterial and antiviral properties. It has been shown to effectively combat a broad range of bacteria (including both gram-positive and gram-negative types), fungus, intestinal parasites, and yeast, as well as many common cold and flu viruses. However, it is important to note that cooking garlic destroys its allicin content, so using raw garlic is necessary to prevent or fight infections.
A study published in the April 2005 issue of Phytotherapy Research by researchers at the University of Ottawa confirmed garlic’s infection-fighting capability. They tested 19 natural health products containing garlic as well as five fresh garlic extracts for antimicrobial activity and active compounds. These 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 causes many types of hospital infections). The products with the highest allicin content were most successful at eradicating these bacteria.
Garlic is currently being investigated for its potential to combat antibiotic-resistant microbes, as it may be able to go where current antibiotics cannot. A study conducted at the University of California, Irvine, demonstrated garlic’s antibacterial power against a wide spectrum of potential pathogens, including several antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. Even when diluted up to 1:128 of the original juice, garlic juice still retained significant antimicrobial activity.
In addition to its infection-fighting capabilities, garlic may also be beneficial for oral health. A study published in the July 2005 issue of Archives of Oral Biology found that garlic extract inhibits disease-causing bacteria in the mouth and may be valuable in fighting periodontitis, a serious gum disease. Since oral health can impact the rest of the body, this is exciting news as disease-causing bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream via bleeding gums, travel to the heart valve, and cause damage.
type of yeast that can cause infections in humans. The study found that fresh garlic extract was able to inhibit the growth of C. albicans, suggesting that it may be a useful tool in fighting yeast infections.
In conclusion, while further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of garlic, early studies suggest that it may be effective in reducing side effects of prescription medications, enhancing the effects of antibiotics, and fighting various infections. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using garlic as a treatment option for any medical condition.
The reason behind yeast infections was studied, and an extract was found to be highly efficient against C. albicans in the first hour of exposure. However, its effectiveness decreased over the 48-hour period during which it was tested. It should be noted that even traditional antifungal medications experience a similar decline in effectiveness over time. Additionally, a blend of raw garlic and water has been found to potentially prevent wounds from becoming infected. This was discovered through experimentation, and the results are promising. The aforementioned findings were presented in a table with an accompanying image for added context.
Looking for more information on garlic? Check out:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover delicious recipes featuring garlic.
- Nutrition: Learn how garlic contributes to your overall nutrition plan.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a bountiful harvest of vegetables this year.
- Gardening: Get answers to all your questions about gardening and plants.
This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to offer medical advice. Neither Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor publisher assumes responsibility for any possible consequences resulting from reading or following the information contained in this guide. The publication of this guide does not constitute medical practice, and it is not intended to replace the advice of a physician or other healthcare provider. Before beginning any treatment, readers should consult their physician or other healthcare provider.
Discover the Benefits of Using Garlic for Infections
External Treatments
Garlic has many external uses. Applying a solution of crushed garlic and water to wounds may prevent infection. (To make the solution, mix one crushed garlic clove with one-third cup of clean water. Use within three hours, as the solution loses potency over time.) A garlic solution used as a footbath several times a day is believed to improve athlete’s foot.
A study at Bastyr University, a natural health sciences school and research center near Seattle, found that a garlic oil extract cured all warts it was applied to within two weeks. A water extract of garlic was much less effective. The garlic oil extract also proved useful in dissolving corns.
Using garlic oil extract is more effective than the old remedy of taping a slice of garlic to a wart, which risks blistering the surrounding healthy skin. Garlic’s phytochemical compounds can cause chemical burns, so be cautious when applying externally, and do not use on young children. To protect surrounding healthy skin, apply petroleum jelly before the garlic.
While viruses are a small opponent compared to cancer, the next page discusses research into garlic’s potential to prevent cancer.
| Flu Fighter: Garlic vs. the Common Cold To get the best dose of bacteria-fighting allicin, herbalists recommend chewing garlic and holding it in your mouth before swallowing. If this is too difficult, mince a clove and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the allicin to form, then place it in empty gelatin capsules (available in the herb section of natural food stores).
Taking three cloves daily when you have a cold may help you feel better. If raw garlic bothers your stomach, take the capsules with food that contains a small amount of canola or olive oil. Other remedies include garlic poultices or plasters to relieve colds and chest congestion. To make a garlic poultice, chop garlic and wrap it in a clean cloth, thin washcloth, or paper towel. Pour warm water over the wrapped garlic and lightly wring it out. Place the poultice on the chest for several minutes, then on the back over the lung area, and some herbalists suggest placing it on the soles of the feet. However, be cautious not to let the garlic come into direct contact with the skin as it may cause burns. Garlic has been studied for its potential cancer-preventing benefits, especially towards stomach and colon cancers. Some studies have suggested that unprocessed garlic may reduce the risk of these cancers, with as few as two servings per week being beneficial. However, it is important to note that more studies are needed to confirm these findings. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Neither the authors 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 this information. It is recommended to seek the advice of a physician or other healthcare provider before undertaking any course of treatment. Garlic has been found to have anticancer benefits, and even eating as few as two servings a week may be enough to help protect against colon cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute’s reviewed research. Garlic’s sulfur-containing agents, including allicin, appear to protect colon cells from cancer-causing agents. It may also help prevent gastritis from evolving into cancer by decreasing 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. Regular consumption of substantial amounts of garlic for three to five years or longer may reduce the risk of laryngeal, gastric, colon, and endometrial cancers. However, most studies do not show a reduction in breast cancer risk related to garlic intake, and the data on whether garlic helps prevent the development of prostate cancer is less definitive. Garlic compounds have also been found to protect against skin cancer when applied topically to tumors, but it is important to follow physician’s treatment guidelines for serious diseases like skin cancer. If you want to benefit from garlic, you can incorporate it into your diet and health routine without any regrets. For further information on garlic, you can explore various resources like vegetable recipes, nutrition plans, vegetable gardens, and gardening tips. However, it is important to note that this information is solely for informational purposes and is not intended to provide medical advice. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and readers must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider before undertaking any course of treatment. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences resulting from the application of the information contained in this piece. FAQWhat is garlic? Garlic is a plant that belongs to the allium family. It is widely used in cooking for its distinct flavor and aroma. The bulb of the garlic plant is made up of multiple cloves that are covered in a papery skin. What are the health benefits of garlic? Garlic has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and boosting the immune system. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. How should I store garlic? Garlic should be stored in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Avoid storing it in the fridge as moisture can cause it to sprout. Garlic can also be stored in an airtight container or bag in the freezer for up to six months. How do I prepare garlic for cooking? To prepare garlic for cooking, remove the skin from the individual cloves and either chop, mince, or crush them. The finer the garlic is chopped, the stronger the flavor will be. Garlic can also be roasted or sautéed whole for a milder flavor. What are some popular dishes that use garlic? Garlic is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Some popular dishes that use garlic include garlic bread, garlic shrimp, garlic chicken, and garlic mashed potatoes. Can I eat raw garlic? Yes, it is safe to eat raw garlic. However, it is important to note that raw garlic has a much stronger flavor and aroma than cooked garlic. Some people may also experience digestive discomfort after consuming raw garlic. Can garlic be used for medicinal purposes? Garlic has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties. Some people use garlic to treat conditions such as colds, flu, and high blood pressure. What are some alternative uses for garlic? Garlic can be used for a variety of purposes outside of cooking. Some alternative uses for garlic include using it as a natural insect repellent, a treatment for athlete’s foot, and a remedy for cold sores. What is black garlic? Black garlic is a type of garlic that has been aged under controlled conditions for several weeks. This process causes the garlic to turn black and gives it a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. Black garlic is often used as a gourmet ingredient in cooking. Can I grow garlic in my garden? Yes, garlic can be easily grown in a home garden. The best time to plant garlic is in the fall, and it should be harvested in the summer. Garlic prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly. What is the difference between hardneck and softneck garlic? Hardneck garlic has a hard stem that grows through the center of the bulb and produces a scape, or flower stalk, in the spring. Softneck garlic does not have a hard stem and does not produce a scape. Hardneck garlic typically has a stronger flavor and is easier to peel. Is garlic used in any cultural or religious practices? Garlic has been used in various cultural and religious practices throughout history. In some cultures, garlic is believed to have protective properties and is used to ward off evil spirits. In others, garlic is used as a symbol of strength and courage.  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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