Garlic, Allium sativum, [mfn] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garlic [/mfn] has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. In 1858, Pasteur noted garlic’s antibacterial activity, and it was used as an antiseptic to prevent gangrene during World War I and World War II. [mfn] https://www.aafp.org/afp/2005/0701/p103.html#afp20050701p103-b2 [/mfn]
Furthermore, it has been used as an alternative medicine to possibly aid in treating high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stomach cancer, colon cancer or rectal cancer, and in preventing tick bites. Garlic applied to the skin may also be possibly effective in treating fungal skin infections such as ringworm, jock itch, or athlete’s foot.
However, it is uncertain whether garlic is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Thus, garlic should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.
Garlic is often sold as an herbal supplement. Nonetheless, this herbal or any other health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination with toxic metals or other drugs.
Breakdown of Nutrients in Each Clove of Garlic
| NUTRIENT | VALUE |
| Water (g) | 58.58 |
| Energy (kcal) | 149 |
| Energy (kJ) | 623 |
| Protein (g) | 6.36 |
| Total Lipid (fat) (g) | 0.5 |
| Ash (g) | 1.5 |
| Carbohydrate, by difference (g) | 33.06 |
| Fiber, total dietary (g) | 2.1 |
| Sugars, total including NLEA (g) | 1 |
| Calcium, Ca (mg) | 181 |
| Iron, Fe (mg) | 1.7 |
| Magnesium, Mg (mg) | 25 |
| Phosphorus, P (mg) | 153 |
The strong aroma of garlic cooking on the stovetop goes beyond its delicious scent. It may not be scientifically proven yet but here are some of the benefits we may get from consuming garlic.
1. Boosts Immune System
Garlic can be antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory. It has phytonutrients that help reduce oxidative stress, strengthening your immunity. The herb also reduces fatigue and boosts energy. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3746674/ [/mfn]
In addition, garlic has been shown to have supportive immune-boosting properties. From eating raw garlic to taking dietary supplements of an organosulfur obtained from garlic. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874089/ [/mfn]
Garlic is also known for its high antioxidant levels, especially rich in four main chemical classes: alliin, allyl cysteine, allyl disulfide, and allicin. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16822206 [/mfn] These antioxidant levels help protect your cells keeping you healthy and strong.
Although research is limited, some studies show individuals were less likely to get a cold after taking garlic supplements. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25386977 [/mfn]
Furthermore, a study showed a clear decrease in inflammation and arthritis symptoms through high levels of sulfur compounds, specifically thiacremonone found in garlic. [mfn] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/ar2819 [/mfn]
Garlic could be a useful addition to any anti-inflammatory regimen.
2. Helps Treat Skin Infections And Heal Wounds
The ajoene, a substance found in garlic, may help treat fungal skin infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot.
Additionally, it acts as an effective herbal remedy for an infected wound. [mfn] https://www.organicfacts.net/home-remedies/foods-for-healing-wounds.html [/mfn] Just place 2 crushed cloves on the infected area and it will do the trick on getting an instant relief.
Learn more tips on how to keep your skin glowing all year round. [mfn] https://pinoyupnorth.com/10-natural-ways-to-keep-your-skin-glowing-all-year-round/ [/mfn]
3. Helps Prevent Acne
Garlic, along with other ingredients like honey, cream, and turmeric, is used as a home remedy for acne scars and even preventing the onset of acne. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7526077 [/mfn] Also, it is an effective skin cleanser and an antibiotic substance that helps resolve several skin conditions such as skin rashes, psoriasis, cold sores, and blisters. Additionally, it also helps in cell synthesis, protecting against UV rays, and in delaying aging.
However, it is best to avoid placing garlic directly on the skin, as it can cause a rash, a burning sensation and, in rare cases, blistering
Know how to treat cold sores, its causes and prevention. [mfn] https://pinoyupnorth.com/how-to-prevent-and-treat-excruciating-mouth-ulcers/ [/mfn]
4. Helps Prevent Blood Clots
The anti-clotting properties of ajoene found in garlic help in preventing the formation of blood clots in the body. Hence, it may also increase the risk of bleeding after surgery.
5. Boosts Digestion
Daily inclusion of raw garlic cloves in your diet aids digestive problems such as stomach gas, dysentery, diarrhea and colitis. Even inflammation or irritation of the gastric canal may be reduced using this herb. Aside from that, it does not affect the good bacteria in the intestine but destroys the harmful ones.
6. Helps Lower Blood Pressure
Angiotensin II is a protein that helps our blood vessels contract, thereby increasing blood pressure. On the other hand, allicin in garlic blocks the activity of angiotensin II which helps in reducing blood pressure. The polysulphides present in garlic are converted into a gas called hydrogen sulphide by the red blood cells which then dilates our blood vessels and helps control blood pressure.
According to a 2014 report in the Integrated Blood Pressure Control journal, aged garlic extract has the ability to lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4266250/ [/mfn] However, further studies are required to verify if they can be considered as an alternative therapy for hypertension.
Learn more Tips To Lower Blood Pressure Without Taking Medications. [mfn] https://pinoyupnorth.com/simple-tips-to-lower-blood-pressure-without-taking-medications/ [/mfn]
7. Helps Reduce Cholesterol
Garlic has the ability to moderately lower our blood triglycerides and total cholesterol and reduce arterial plaque formation. Raw garlic, rich in the allicin compound, prevents LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol from oxidizing. However, there is not enough research to verify this health benefit definitively.
8. Combats Allergies
Garlic can help the body fight against allergies. It has been shown to improve allergic airway inflammation or allergic rhinitis. Thus, raw garlic juice may be used to immediately stop the itching due to rashes and bug bites.
9. Improves Bone Health
Herbs like garlic and onion may affect estrogen levels in menopausal women by reducing the risk of developing osteoarthritis. They may also minimize bone loss and improve overall bone health in both men and women. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21143861 [/mfn]
10. Improves Eye Health
Being rich in certain nutrients like selenium, quercetin, and vitamin C, it can also contribute to eye health and help with eye infections and inflammation. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17955479 [/mfn]
Learn more ways to improve optimal eye health. [mfn] https://pinoyupnorth.com/natural-habits-to-maintain-optimal-eye-health/ [/mfn]
11. Helps Relieve Toothaches
Simply putting some crushed garlic clove directly on the affected tooth can help relieve toothaches due to its antibacterial and analgesic properties. But be aware that it can also be irritating to the gum too!
12. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
Garlic increases insulin release and regulates blood sugar levels in diabetics. Additionally, according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, eating raw garlic cloves reduced blood sugar levels. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16484567 [/mfn]
Know Simple Ways To Lower Blood Sugar. [mfn] https://pinoyupnorth.com/simple-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar/ [/mfn]
13. Helps Against Warts and Corns
Applying fat dissolving garlic extracts to corns on the feet and warts on the hands is thought to improve these conditions.
14. Relieves Respiratory Problems
Daily use of garlic might reduce the frequency and number of colds. Also, its antibacterial properties help in treating throat irritations as well as reducing the severity of upper respiratory tract infections and dyspnea or difficulty of breathing. Likewise, its ability to promote expectoration makes it irreplaceable in chronic bronchitis.
Additionally, eating boiled garlic cloves is considered an effective homeopathic remedy to reduce the symptoms of asthma. Another suggested remedy is drinking a glass of milk with three boiled cloves each night before going to sleep. It can bring subsequent relief for patients with asthma. Asthma attacks may be brought under control by having crushed cloves with malt vinegar as well.
15. Improve Iron Metabolism
Ferroportin is a protein which helps in iron absorption. Diallyl sulphides in garlic increase production of ferroportin thus help improve iron metabolism.
16. Reduces Weight
For several years, garlic has been used as a remedy for weight loss. According to a study done to animal models, it reduced the expression of genes that are involved in adipogenesis (fat cells production), which leads to the formation of fat cells. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21840827 [/mfn]
In addition, it helped increased thermogenesis (process of heat production), which helps burn fat and reduce LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21918057 {/mfn] Moreover, this research has positive implications for reducing obesity in humans.
17. Prevents Heavy Metal Poisoning
High doses of garlic may prevent organ damage caused by heavy metals by reducing blood and tissue lead concentrations according to a study published in Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology. In addition, they also prevent the signs of toxicity, such as headaches and blood pressure, and also aid in better absorption of iron and zinc in the blood.alike. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22151785 [/mfn]
18. Increases Libido
The herb has certain aphrodisiac and libido-inducing properties, due to its ability to increase the circulation, so it can be utilized as an effective rejuvenator for sex.
19. Reduces UTI and Kidney Infections
Garlic prevents the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen responsible for recurring urinary tract infections (UTI) and kidney infections. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19878318 [/mfn] [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC538912/ [/mfn] Fresh garlic extract is also used to prevent the growth of candida vaginitis and E. coli infection.
20. Prevents Hair Loss
Regular application of garlic gel or garlic-infused coconut oil may aid with hair loss conditions like alopecia and thereby promoting hair growth. However, limited information and research on this connection exist, therefore more studies are needed to confirm the scientific association.
21. Prevents Peptic Ulcer
The antibacterial compounds present in the herb can eliminate stomach parasites that cause peptic ulcers such as the Helicobacter pylori.
22. Helps Remove Splinters
Traditionally, it has been used as a home remedy for dealing with stubborn splinters. Place half a garlic clove over the splinter cut, bandage it, and see the splinter and pain disappear!
23. Helps Prevent Cancer
Garlic is a promising ingredient to include in your diet for cancer prevention and inhibition as daily intake of it has been found to lower risk of most types of cancer. This anti-cancer property is due to allyl sulphides found in garlic.
One study looked at a group of 345 participants diagnosed with primary breast carcinoma. it has been concluded that breast cancer risk decreased with increased consumption of garlic (combined with onion and cereal fiber). [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9928867 [/mfn]
Furthermore, a study suggested that a higher garlic intake (over 2 grams/day) lowers prostate cancer risk in Chinese men. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12419792?dopt=Abstract [/mfn] Also, early clinical studies suggest that garlic supplements may help prevent prostate cancer. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9303371?dopt=Abstract [/mfn] However, larger clinical trials are needed to prove its effectiveness for prostate cancer prevention.
24. Helps Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of raw garlic may help prevent future neurodegenerative diseases. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3074326/ [/mfn]
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a form of dementia that acts on various functions of the brain and everyday living. Memory, cognitive function, and mental clarity are some of the aspects of brain function that are directly and negatively impacted by this disease. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6417794/ [/mfn]
In a study, it has been shown that garlic contains some of the necessary antioxidants and phytonutrients that protect the brain from the risk of the specific type of oxidative stress that can lead to worsening symptoms of AD. [mfn] https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/136/3/810S/4664377 [/mfn]
25. Detoxifies And Supports The Liver
Detoxication is a natural function of the human body when it is in a healthy state. Research shows that garlic contains some of the specific amino acids and antioxidants that may be helpful in the phase two detoxification process, making garlic a great addition to your diet for optimal liver detoxification and cleansing. [mfn] https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/food-beverages/garlic [/mfn]
26. Improves Certain Yeast Infections
Small clinical trials suggest that applying a gel with garlic (containing 0.6% ajoene) twice daily may improve certain yeast infections such as ringworm or Tinea corporis, jock itch or Tinea cruris, Athlete’s foot or Tinea pedis, within a week. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10417874?dopt=Abstract [/mfn] [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10417874?dopt=Abstract [/mfn]
27. Helps With Repelling Ticks
Garlic seems to be a promising insect repellent, but just how well it works compared to standard synthetic repellents is still unknown. In one study, people who ate a lot of garlic (1200 mg daily) over 8 weeks seemed to have fewer tick bites, compared to placebo. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10938169?dopt=Abstract [/mfn]
Dosage and Supplements
Garlic supplements are classified into four groups: [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103721/ [/mfn] [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103721/ [/mfn]
- Garlic oil – Water-soluble compounds and allicin are eliminated by this process. It contains a variety of sulfides, including diallyl disulfide.
- Garlic oil macerate – Made of encapsulated garlic cloves ground into vegetable oil. Oil macerate contains allicin, which decomposes quickly into other compounds (dithiins, ajoene, and sulfides).
- Garlic powder – Dried and pulverized into powder. The main sulfur compound in garlic powder is alliin. Garlic powder does not contain allicin.
- Aged garlic extract – Aged raw garlic has an increased concentration of antioxidant compounds. Allicin decomposes into other compounds, including S-allyl cysteine, which is one of the most active compounds in aged garlic extract.
For adults, the recommended amount is 4 grams (1 to 2 cloves) of raw garlic, 300 mg dried garlic powder tablet 2 to 3 times or 7.2 grams of garlic extract per day. [mfn] http://www.aafp.org/afp/2005/0701/p103.html [/mfn]
In addition, Alliin, an amino acid containing sulfur, is broken down by the enzyme alliinase and converted to allicin when raw garlic is chopped or crushed. Allicin is an unstable compound that degrades quickly, so be sure to chop your garlic right before use. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10594976 [/mfn].
Most noteworthy, cooked garlic is less potent than raw garlic because the enzymes that form sulfur compounds are already deactivated by the heat. [mfn] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3074326/ [/mfn] [mfn] http://www.aafp.org/afp/2005/0701/p103.html [/mfn]
Conclusion
Considering the numerous health benefits which garlic can provide, it is always advisable to check with an expert or consult your doctor before trying these treatments at home.
Great benefits and tips Garlic offers. Thanks Dianne putting them all together here for very easy thoughtful article. & Yes, insects do not like it, repels them, even flying ones like misquotes & flies. Keep putting out Great content, Life Mag is awesome with health & fitness info! Thanks Again!
Thank you for the compliments Denver! We are happy to share health and fitness awareness to everyone, and we’re glad of your appreciation. Garlic is indeed beneficial in so many different ways even since the ancient times, and there might be some more benefits out there we’re not aware of. Hope this information helps!
I love garlic. I’m so thankful they have some great health benefits.
Great to hear how you love garlic Mom Elite! It is indeed very beneficial to our overall health. Keep it up!
hi
such a well researched post. reading this post i could relate to why my dad used to take garlic as a paste combined with a few other ingredients everyday morning
Thank you for the compliments Sumit! Happy to share health and wellness information to everyone! Hmm.. garlic paste is a good idea! Will try this for sure!
Very interesting post. I have just bought some garlic last week. I should start consuming them and enjoy their health benefits. Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome Jeph! Hope this article contributed to your pursuance of optimal health.
I use garlic in most of things i cook. i absolutely love the aroma.
Absolutely Nina! Garlic do smell good, and it has lots of good health benefits too!
I love garlic, this is great to know!
Love to hear that you like it! Keep it up.
Our family’s cooking has always included garlic — and, even if the FDA hasn’t confirmed all the benefits, I can see that what you list as positives are true, at least with respect to all of us.
It’s great to hear that your family’s already have the culture of eating garlic! And yes, it isn’t approved by the FDA yet so we really need to check with the doctor first before indulging to a diet with garlic, especially if one has an existing health condition.
I always knew that garlic had benefits but I was not aware that it had so many benefits.
That’s right Raksha! It is indeed good to know the great benefits which garlic can provide so we can be totally health aware.
Garlic is amazing! My grandma always tells me about all its benefits and I fully stand by it! Might not make magic happen, but it is certainly amazing in many ways.
Absolutely! It is wonderful in many different ways! And hope it helps you in your pursuance of optimal wellness.
I love garlic, but I didnt know how MANY benefits it had. Thank you for sharing.
You’re welcome Michele! Happy to share health and wellness information.
I eat garlic every single day, mostly raw. So OK I will be so healthy.
Wow that sounds great Jane! Hope I could eat more raw garlic. Good luck, hope you attain your goal of health and wellness!