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Garlic is a favorite vegetable for many people and leaving it out of recipes is unimaginable for garlic lovers. This article covers a variety of topics such as growing garlic, selecting and serving garlic, the healing history of garlic, and its medicinal uses.
Garlic & Garlic Recipes Image Gallery
 For cooking, the plumpest garlic cloves are used while the others are planted. Check out more pictures of garlic and garlic recipes. |
About Garlic
Garlic is a perennial vegetable that resembles onions except for the segmented cloves. The flower head looks like a tissue paper dunce cap and contains small flowers and bulblets.
Common Name: Garlic
Scientific Name: Allium sativum
Hardiness: Very Hardy (will survive first frost)
The next section explains how to grow garlic.
For more information on garlic, try:
- Vegetable Recipes: Find delicious recipes that feature garlic.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer your questions about all things that come from the garden.
Growing Garlic
Garlic is a must-have in the kitchen for most garlic lovers. Make it a must-have in your home vegetable garden as well.
 Garlic plants can be grown from bulbs purchased in a grocery store. |
During the early growth period, garlic requires cool temperatures, but heat does not affect it during later stages. In the North, garlic should be planted in the spring, while in the South, fall planting produces good results. Garlic can be grown from cloves or bulblets, with the plump side facing down. These cloves need full sun and well-worked soil with good drainage and high organic matter. Plant them 1 to 2 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart, four to six weeks before the average last frost date. It’s important to keep the garlic slightly dry, especially as the bulbs approach maturity, to improve flavor. Keep the area cultivated.
To harvest garlic, dig up the entire plant when the tops start to dry, which takes about 90 days from planting. The plumpest cloves should be used for cooking, while the others can be replanted. There are few varieties of garlic available, but plants can be grown from cloves purchased at the grocery store.
When selecting garlic, it’s important to know how to prepare it properly. While most varieties have a pungent odor and taste, pink-skinned garlic is sweeter and keeps longer than white garlic. Elephant garlic is milder in flavor and can be used like a leek. However, most varieties can be used interchangeably in recipes. A roasted garlic hummus recipe featuring garlic is available for those who want to learn more about this popular ingredient.
When shopping for garlic, it is best to choose loose ones instead of those wrapped in plastic. This way, you can easily check their quality and freshness. Look for paper-white skins and pick a head that is firm with no visible damp or brown spots. While garlic powder may retain some active components, it is not a substitute for fresh garlic as much of its flavor is processed out. Avoid garlic salt as it contains a large amount of sodium. Store garlic in a cool, dark and dry spot and check it occasionally if you don’t use it regularly. If one or two cloves have gone bad, remove them but avoid nicking the remaining ones as it can hasten their demise. If garlic begins to sprout, it is still okay to use but may have a milder flavor.
Garlic pressed through a garlic press is ten times stronger than minced garlic, so use pressed garlic when you want full-force flavor and minced when you want to curtail it. For a buttery flavor, bake whole cloves until tender. Rub the bottom of the 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 pungent aroma garlic leaves on your breath, chew on fresh parsley, fresh mint, or citrus peel. Cut or crush garlic and let it sit in the air for about 10 minutes before using to reap its benefits.
Garlic has been used for physical and spiritual health for over 5,000 years, with the ancient Egyptians believed to be the first to farm it. Hard-working slaves in Egypt were given garlic to improve their strength and ward off illness, and it was even used as currency to buy healthy male slaves to help build the pyramids. Garlic continues to be used for its healing properties today.
The ancient Egyptians believed that garlic possessed sacred qualities and would ward off evil spirits, which is why they buried garlic-shaped lumps of clay with dead pharaohs. Even after millennia, archaeologists found preserved bulbs of garlic scattered around King Tut’s tomb. The Egyptians would chew garlic before making a journey at night, creating a radius of odor so strong that they believed it would keep evil spirits at bay. The Greeks and Romans also loved garlic, with Greek athletes and soldiers eating it before entering the arena or battlefield because they thought it had strength-enhancing properties. Hippocrates, the ancient Greek known as the “father of medicine,” prescribed garlic for a variety of ailments around 400 B.C. Garlic’s medicinal reputation continued into the Middle Ages, with it being used to prevent the plague and treat leprosy and other ailments. Despite its medicinal properties, garlic was not commonly used in cooking in many historic cultures.
In the past, garlic was used for medicinal purposes in various ways. The bulb’s juice could be extracted and ingested for one condition, while the bulb could be ground into a paste for external treatment of other health issues. Garlic was believed to bring good luck and protect against evil, including vampires, in the minds of the superstitious. However, only in European and American folklore are vampires powerless in the presence of garlic. Garlic gained popularity in modern medicine during World War I when the Russians used it to treat battle wounds and fight infection. Garlic has been used by herbalists for a variety of health problems such as preventing colds, treating intestinal problems, and reducing heart-disease risk. Scientists have identified sulfur-containing compounds in garlic that have medicinal properties. Cutting or chewing a garlic clove activates numerous sulfurous substances that form compounds with therapeutic properties. Although garlic has a mixed history due to its alleged aphrodisiac qualities and being banned in certain sacred places, it has found its way to modern times and is still being researched for its health benefits.
Looking for more information about garlic? Check out the following options: Vegetable Recipes, Nutrition, Vegetable Gardens, and Gardening. These resources offer a wealth of knowledge about garlic and its many uses. Please note that this information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Before starting any treatment or making any dietary modifications, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.
If you’re interested in using garlic for medicinal purposes, one clove per day is often recommended. Garlic is a rich source of phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring chemicals that offer health benefits. While garlic is generally safe for most adults, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. Individuals who are allergic to plants in the lily family should avoid garlic, as should those who are pregnant, anticipating surgery or dental procedures, or have bleeding disorders. Garlic can thin the blood, so it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before using it in conjunction with blood thinners or other medications.
The Lowdown on Supplements
Fresh, organically grown raw garlic is ideal, but if you cannot consume enough of it in your diet, here is what you need to know about supplements.
| Garlic as Ear Infection Treatment Garlic extract added to olive oil is an ancient remedy for ear infections. Herbalists recommend slightly heating the oil, adding a very small amount of sliced garlic, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then straining it thoroughly before putting a couple of drops into the infected ear. It’s essential that there are no garlic particles in the oil. Before placing the oil in your ear, put 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 (either 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. It is important to consult your health-care provider before attempting this home remedy, and it is critical if you have ever had a ruptured eardrum. |
According to various research studies, not all garlic supplements have the same amount of allicin as claimed on the label during testing. This can be attributed to multiple factors including differences in garlic, growing conditions, fertilizers used, processing methods employed, and quality control during manufacturing. This poses a problem in evaluating garlic research as it is unclear whether commercial garlic preparations contain the advertised compounds or not. The manufacturing process for supplements typically involves slicing garlic and drying it at low temperatures to preserve alliinase, an enzyme that converts alliin to allicin. The dried garlic is then pulverized and formed into tablets. The powder must contain a minimum of 0.3% alliin to meet the standards set by the US Pharmacopeia. However, manufacturers label their supplements differently, making it difficult for consumers to choose the right one. Some tablets contain only alliin, while others contain both alliin and allicin. Furthermore, some supplement labels mention “allicin potential” or “allicin yield,” which indicates the amount of allicin that could be formed, rather than the actual amount of allicin present. Additionally, most supplements are enteric-coated to avoid dissolving in the stomach’s acidic environment. However, tablets often produce only a little allicin under these conditions, and the tablets take too long to dissolve. The “allicin release” measurement is a better indicator of how much allicin the supplement produces under conditions similar to those found in the digestive tract. Unfortunately, only a few manufacturers list this measurement on their labels. To choose a garlic supplement, look for the “standardization” statement on the label, but this is not always a reliable guarantee. A product that carries the USP seal follows set methods to help ensure standardization. Dried garlic powder is considered to have effects similar to those of fresh, crushed garlic. Other types of supplements, such as oils from crushed garlic, aged garlic extract in alcohol, and steam-distilled oils seem to contain less allicin and perhaps less of other active compounds than the dried powder.
If you’re in the market for a garlic supplement, make sure it’s labeled as containing at least 1.3 percent allicin. In the US, pharmacy-grade garlic usually only contains between 0.3 and 0.5 percent allicin. Additionally, avoid tablets that are enteric-coated or time-release, as they may not dissolve quickly enough in your digestive system to be effective.
If you want more information on garlic, check out:
- Vegetable Recipes: Find delicious recipes that feature garlic.
- Nutrition: Find out how garlic fits in with your overall nutrition plans.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer your questions about all things that come from the garden.
This information is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Neither Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor publisher assume responsibility for any negative consequences resulting from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action, or application of medication that may stem from reading or following the information provided. This information is not meant to replace the advice of a physician or other healthcare provider. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
More on How to Use Garlic Medicinally
How Much Should You Take?
Several large scientific organizations have made recommendations about garlic dosage. The European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy recommends 3 milligrams to 5 milligrams of allicin (3,000 micrograms to 5,000 micrograms) for the prevention of atherosclerosis, which is equivalent to one clove, or 0.5 grams 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 worrying about whether or not a garlic supplement contains the advertised amount of allicin, simply add fresh garlic to your food. This way, you can be certain that you’re getting the most potent allicin available. Consider these facts:
- An average garlic clove weighs about 3 grams.
- The amount of alliin in an average clove ranges from 24 milligrams to 56 milligrams.
- A
typical 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 performed on rats indicate that when fed allicin while on a sugar-rich diet, the rodents’ blood pressure, insulin levels, and triglyceride levels all decrease. A study that appeared in the December 2003 issue of the American Journal of Hypertension showed other surprising results. The weight of the rats that were fed allicin either remained stable or decreased slightly. The weight of the rats in the control group increased. Certainly, additional research needs to be done, but this study again demonstrates how wide-ranging garlic’s benefits could be. |
The main points to consider when taking garlic supplements include aiming for 5 milligrams of allicin per day, using supplements that state the amount of “allicin release,” and noting that allicin is often listed in micrograms rather than milligrams. It is also important to remember that a supplement may contain 500 milligrams of dried garlic bulb, which is equal to 0.5 gram and falls into the low end of the World Health Organization’s recommendation for dried garlic powder. However, dried powder contains only a small amount of allicin, with other compounds making up the rest of the tablet. One specific benefit of consuming garlic is its potential to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. However, it is important to seek medical advice before undertaking any course of treatment.
the overall risk of heart disease.
The human body has arteries that are similar to flexible tubes, capable of expanding and contracting as blood flows through them. However, injuries to these tubes caused by events such as high blood pressure, smoking, aging, diabetes, high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels trigger the body to produce a sticky substance that covers the damaged area in a process akin to patching up a hole in drywall. Unfortunately, this sticky substance causes fatty substances, calcium, proteins, inflammatory cells and other debris in the blood to stick to the vessel walls, leading to the formation of plaque. As this plaque accumulates on the artery’s inner walls, it narrows the artery’s diameter and reduces its elasticity, making it more vulnerable to further injury. The plaque can also crack, or bits of it can become dislodged, leading to the formation of clots which can further narrow the artery or even completely block it. When this happens in arteries that supply the heart and the brain, it can lead to heart attacks and strokes, respectively.
Cholesterol plays a vital role in some of the body’s processes, such as cell membrane formation, nutrient transport, waste product removal, and hormone structure. However, too much of the wrong type of cholesterol can be dangerous. When cholesterol is consumed in food such as meat, eggs, and cheese, the body breaks it down to digest it and turns some of it back into cholesterol. The body also produces cholesterol from the solid fats in the diet, and genetics can also play a role in the amount of cholesterol produced. All this cholesterol is transported through the bloodstream, with different types of blood cholesterol, including total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. The optimal blood lipid levels from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (as of 2005) are just one of several risk factors that determine the overall risk of heart disease, along with family history and smoking.
To reduce the risk of heart disease, it may be necessary to lower lipid levels below the standard ones listed. If you have any risk factors, consult with your healthcare provider.
LDL cholesterol is also known as “bad” cholesterol because it sticks to artery walls and forms plaque, which narrows the arteries and makes them inflexible and difficult for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. HDL cholesterol is called “good” cholesterol because it eliminates excess blood cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Triglycerides, another form of lipid, can also contribute to the thickening of artery walls. Garlic has been touted as a natural cholesterol-lowering supplement, but recent studies have shown mixed results. While garlic may lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the short term, it does not appear to alter HDL levels. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or supplement regimen.
According to research, garlic has the most significant effect on lowering cholesterol in the first one to three months of treatment, with no further reduction after six months. Although garlic can be a helpful addition to a cholesterol-lowering diet, it cannot be relied on as the sole solution to high blood cholesterol levels, as elevated cholesterol levels contribute to heart disease over time. Further research is needed, including longer-term studies and consideration of the type of garlic used. While garlic may not be a miracle cure, there is good scientific evidence supporting its use for small reductions in blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol over short periods of time. Garlic can have a positive effect, but it is unclear if it loses its effectiveness after several months or if other factors affect the findings in studies.
Studies have shown that taking nonenteric-coated garlic powder tablets, which are standardized to contain 1.3 percent alliin, may help reduce total cholesterol levels by up to 20 mg/dL within 4 to 12 weeks. LDL cholesterol may decrease by up to 10 mg/dL, while triglycerides may decrease by up to 20 mg/dL. However, the effects of garlic supplements beyond 20 weeks are unclear, and HDL cholesterol levels are not significantly affected. While well-designed studies of longer duration and including more people may provide stronger evidence of garlic’s cholesterol-reducing benefits, it is not a substitute for medications prescribed by a physician.
Lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol levels are often recommended by doctors before or along with drug therapy to cut the risks of unpleasant or dangerous side effects. Although garlic should not replace prescribed medications, including it more often in a cholesterol-lowering diet is easy, inexpensive, and enhances the flavor of meals that are low in fat and sodium. The main drawback of garlic is its odor, which affects breath and perspiration.
Different forms of garlic may yield different results, making it difficult to compare studies of its effectiveness in humans. Fresh cloves of garlic that are chopped or chewed may contain the highest amount of allicin, but they have not been well studied. Swallowing fresh cloves of garlic whole showed no therapeutic value in a limited number of 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 do not dissolve soon enough to release the allicin they contain and usually prevent garlic odor on the breath. Nonenteric-coated garlic tablets standardized to contain 1.3 percent allicin may be more effective than enteric-coated tablets but cause garlic breath. Aged garlic extract contains ajoene, among others, and studies have produced conflicting results regarding its health benefits. Garlic oil shows little therapeutic value in studies.
Looking for more information on garlic? Check out some of these resources:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover delicious recipes that incorporate garlic into your meals.
- Nutrition: Learn about how garlic can fit into your overall nutrition plan.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a variety of vegetables, including garlic, in your garden this year.
- Gardening: Get answers to your questions about all things related to gardening.
This information is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor publisher are responsible for any potential consequences that may result from reading or following the information contained in this content, including any treatments, procedures, exercises, dietary modifications, actions, or applications of medication. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine and should not replace advice from your physician or other healthcare provider. Before beginning any course of treatment, seek the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider.
Health Benefits of Garlic for the Heart
Fortunately, garlic contains a variety of compounds that can help improve heart health. Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds like allicin, which can help fight heart disease.
Garlic’s Impact on Plaque
Garlic is also packed with powerful antioxidants that can help prevent oxidation in the body. Selenium is one such antioxidant, found in garlic, which is a component of glutathione peroxidase, another potent antioxidant that the body produces to protect itself. Glutathione peroxidase works in conjunction with vitamin E to create a super-antioxidant defense system. Other antioxidants found in garlic include vitamin C, which can help reduce the damage that LDL cholesterol can cause, and quercetin, a phytochemical that may provide additional health benefits.
Garlic also contains trace amounts of the mineral manganese, which is an essential component of an antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase.
 Garlic can not only help keep the blood clean through its antioxidant properties but can also slightly lower blood pressure. |
Oxidation is linked to oxygen, a crucial element for our existence. However, oxidation can be harmful in certain situations. For instance, when rust builds up on metal objects, it eventually damages and destroys them. Similarly, when the body breaks down glucose, it produces free radicals that start oxidizing and damaging cellular tissue. This can lead to the “rusting out” of the bloodstream and blood vessels.
Antioxidants are essential in destroying free radicals, including those produced by environmental factors such as air pollutants, cigarette smoke, and pesticides. The body maintains a steady supply of antioxidants to neutralize free radicals. However, sometimes there can be an excess of free radicals that the body’s antioxidants can’t handle, especially if there’s a lack of antioxidant nutrients.
When free radicals harm the cells lining the arteries, the body produces a spackle-like substance to mend the damage. But this substance attracts cholesterol and debris, leading to plaque formation in the arteries. This can cause significant health problems, and antioxidants can help protect the arteries from damage. Garlic, in particular, has been found to stop the oxidation of cholesterol, protecting heart health.
Calcium is necessary for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, helping muscles function properly, and reducing the risk of colon cancer. However, calcium can become involved in plaque formation, which is harmful. Cutting back on calcium won’t lower the risk of plaque buildup. The body determines how it uses calcium, and avoiding calcium-rich foods can lead to calcium being drawn out of bones, leaving them weakened. To preserve bone health, it’s recommended to consume around 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. To prevent calcium-fueled plaque buildup in blood vessels, it’s better to eat less saturated and trans fat and consume more antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and garlic.
Garlic may prevent calcium from binding with other substances that form plaque, according to a study by UCLA Medical Center. The study showed that individuals who took an aged garlic extract containing S-allylcysteine, one of garlic’s sulfur-rich compounds, for a year had a lower calcium score than those who took a placebo. If larger studies confirm these results, garlic may prove to be a useful preventative tool for individuals at high risk of cardiovascular problems. In addition to its anti-plaque benefits, garlic may also help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. However, this information is for informational purposes only and should not be used as medical advice. Before starting any treatment, readers should consult with their physician or healthcare provider.
The article provides a glossary of terms related to heart disease, including explanations of antioxidant, arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, fibrinolysis, and hypercholesterolemia. It also describes the benefits of garlic in fighting off infections due to its antimicrobial properties. However, it is important to note that the article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Before starting any treatment, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider.
Research conducted in laboratories has shown that raw garlic possesses properties that are antibacterial and antiviral. It is effective in fighting many common cold and flu viruses, as well as a broad spectrum of bacteria (including both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, which are two major classifications of bacteria), fungus, intestinal parasites, and yeast. However, the allicin in garlic is destroyed when cooked, so raw garlic must be used to prevent or fight infections.
A study published in the April 2005 issue of Phytotherapy Research conducted by researchers at the University of Ottawa confirmed garlic’s ability to fight infections. Nineteen natural health products containing garlic and five fresh garlic extracts were tested for active compounds and antimicrobial activity. These substances were then tested against three types of common bacteria: E. faecalis, which causes urinary tract infections; N. gonorrhoeae, which causes the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea; and S. aureus, which is responsible for many types of infections that are common in hospitals. The products that were most successful in eradicating these bacteria were those with the highest allicin content.
Scientists are currently researching whether garlic can help fight antibiotic-resistant microbes. Garlic may be able to knock out bacteria that current antibiotics cannot.
A study conducted at the University of California, Irvine tested garlic juice against a wide range of potential pathogens, including several antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. Garlic juice showed significant activity against these pathogens, and even when diluted up to 1:128 of the original juice, it still retained significant antimicrobial activity.
Garlic extract has also been found to inhibit disease-causing bacteria in the mouth, which may help fight periodontitis, a serious gum disease. This is significant because oral health can impact the rest of the body. Bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream via bleeding gums, travel to the heart valve, and damage it.
gram-positive bacteria that often causes infections in the mouth and genital area. The study found that fresh garlic extract was able to inhibit the growth of C. albicans, suggesting that it could be a potential treatment for these types of infections. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and delivery method for garlic as a treatment for C. albicans infections. Overall, the research suggests that garlic has the potential to be a powerful tool in the fight against infections and may even enhance the effectiveness of traditional antibiotics.
The reason behind yeast infections was examined and a study showed that an extract was highly efficient against C. albicans within the first hour of exposure. However, its effectiveness waned over the 48-hour period it was monitored. Nevertheless, the decrease in effectiveness is also observed in conventional antifungal drugs.
 A mixture of raw garlic and water could prevent infections in wounds. |
Looking for more information about garlic? Check out these resources:
- Vegetable Recipes: Discover tasty recipes that feature garlic as a key ingredient.
- Nutrition: Learn about how garlic can fit into your overall nutrition plan.
- Vegetable Gardens: Get tips on growing a bountiful garden full of delicious vegetables.
- Gardening: Find answers to your questions about all things related to gardening.
This information is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to provide medical advice. Neither the editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher are responsible for any consequences that may arise from reading or following the information contained in this article. This information does not constitute the practice of medicine and is not a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare provider. Before starting any treatment, readers should consult with their physician or healthcare provider.
More on the Benefits of Garlic for Infections
External Treatments
Garlic can also be used topically to treat external infections. A mixture of raw garlic and water can be applied to wounds to 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 for maximum potency. A garlic footbath can also help improve symptoms of athlete’s foot when used several times a day.
A study at Bastyr University, a natural health sciences school and research center, found that garlic oil extract cured all warts it was applied to within two weeks. In the same study, the garlic oil extract also dissolved corns. However, it is important to note that garlic’s phytochemical compounds are strong and can cause chemical burns, so it should be used with caution and not applied to young children. Petroleum jelly can be applied to the surrounding healthy skin to protect it from the garlic.
Next, we’ll look at research on the use of garlic to prevent cancer. But first, find out how garlic can help fight the common cold by chewing on a clove or taking it in capsule form. Other remedies include using a garlic poultice or plaster for chest congestion.
To make a garlic poultice, chop garlic and place it in a clean cloth, thin washcloth, or paper towel. Fold it over to enclose the garlic, pour very warm water over it, let it sit for a few seconds, and then lightly wring it out. Place the wrapped garlic on the chest for several minutes. Reheat with very warm water and place on the back, over the lung area, for several minutes. Some herbalists suggest placing the poultice on the soles of the feet. However, avoid direct contact with the skin as garlic is so potent that prolonged exposure to the skin may cause a burn.
Garlic has potential cancer-preventing properties, according to studies conducted by the Mayo Clinic and National Institutes of Health’s National Cancer Institute. Unprocessed garlic consumption might reduce the risk of stomach and colon cancers. Observational studies indicated garlic possessed at least some anticancer activity, especially toward prostate and stomach cancer. However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
makes garlic such a potent cancer fighter, you can add it to your diet in order to help prevent various types of cancer. Research conducted by the National Cancer Institute suggests that as little as two servings of garlic per week may be enough to protect against colon cancer. Antioxidants and sulfur-containing agents like allicin are the key components that give garlic its cancer-fighting ability. Allicin has been shown to protect colon cells from toxic substances that can cause cancer, and studies have indicated that garlic consumption may help prevent stomach cancer. Garlic may also have the ability to decrease the H. pylori bacteria in the stomach, which can help prevent gastritis from turning into cancer. However, most research indicates that garlic must be consumed regularly for three to five years or more in order to have a significant impact on cancer risk. While garlic has been shown to be effective against some types of cancer, studies have not shown a significant reduction in breast cancer risk related to garlic intake. The effect of garlic on prostate cancer risk is also less definitive. When applied topically to tumors, garlic may defend against skin cancer, but it is important to consult a physician if you suspect you have skin cancer or have any suspicious lesions. Despite its strong odor, garlic has many health benefits and can be a valuable addition to your diet.
Adding garlic to your meals and health routine can be beneficial without any negative consequences. If you want to learn more about garlic, you can check out vegetable recipes that feature garlic, find out how garlic fits into your nutrition plans, or even grow your own vegetable garden. Please 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., nor the author nor publisher take responsibility for any potential consequences resulting from following the information contained in this article. This information does not replace the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider, and it is essential to seek their advice before starting any treatment or making any dietary modifications.
FAQ
1. What is garlic?
Garlic is a plant that belongs to the onion family. It is widely used in cooking due to its pungent flavor and health benefits. The bulb of the garlic plant is composed of multiple cloves that are covered in a thin, papery skin.
2. What are the health benefits of garlic?
Garlic has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is believed to help with reducing blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, boosting the immune system, and even preventing certain types of cancer. Garlic is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.
3. How do you store garlic?
Garlic should be stored in a cool, dry place such as a pantry or cupboard. It should not be stored in the refrigerator as the moisture can cause it to spoil. Garlic can be stored in a mesh bag or a loosely covered container to allow for air circulation.
4. How do you prepare garlic for cooking?
To prepare garlic for cooking, first separate the cloves from the bulb. Then, remove the papery skin from each clove. Garlic can be chopped, minced, or crushed depending on the recipe. It is important to note that the longer garlic is cooked, the milder its flavor becomes.
5. What dishes is garlic commonly used in?
Garlic is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine such as pasta dishes, pizzas, and roasted vegetables. Garlic is also used in Asian cuisine such as stir-fries and curries.
6. Can garlic be used as a natural remedy?
Yes, garlic has been used as a natural remedy for centuries. It is believed to have antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help with fighting infections. Garlic can also be used topically to help with skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
7. How much garlic should you consume daily?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as it depends on the individual’s health and dietary needs. However, consuming 1-2 cloves of garlic per day is considered safe and can provide health benefits.
8. Can garlic cause bad breath?
Yes, garlic is notorious for causing bad breath due to its strong flavor and odor. The compounds in garlic that give it its strong flavor are also responsible for causing bad breath. Chewing on parsley or drinking green tea can help combat garlic breath.
9. Can garlic be harmful to dogs?
Yes, garlic can be harmful to dogs if consumed in large quantities. It can cause anemia and other health issues. It is important to keep garlic and other human foods out of reach of pets.
10. Can garlic be used to repel insects?
Yes, garlic can be used as a natural insect repellent. It can be mixed with water and sprayed onto plants to repel insects such as aphids and mosquitoes. Garlic can also be used as a natural tick repellent for pets.
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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