What first comes up with your mind when you hear about garlic?

We all know that garlic was commonly used as flavorings in our foods.

Garlic or Allium sativum belongs to the genus Allium and is closely related to the onion, scallion, chive, leek, and shallot. It has been used by humans for thousands of years and was used in Ancient Egypt for both culinary purposes and its health and therapeutic benefits.

Amazing fact!

Garlic is one of the oldest food flavorings that as discovered in ancient times.

Garlic has been used all over the world for thousands of years. Records indicate that garlic was in use when the Giza pyramids were built, about 5,000 years ago.

Who can't resist the captivating aroma of roasted or fried garlic?

I really love the distinct garlic taste in my meals, particularly when I'm eating some soups or any foods that best complement with garlic.

We can't deny that garlic has the ability to instantly enliven any dish. While garlic is a traditional ingredient in every kitchen, in ancient times, it was highly valued for its numerous health benefiting properties, which are still followed in different cultures today.

Did you know?

Garlic is low in calories and rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese. It also contains trace amounts of various other nutrients.

Garlic contains sulfur compounds, which are believed to bring some of the health benefits.

Amazing Health Benefits of Garlic

Garlic promotes heart health. Garlic has been shown to exert cholesterol- and triglyceride-lowering actions. This leads to overall protection for your heart, including reduced cholesterol and lowered blood pressure. In fact, it’s been found that those who have lower blood pressure are more likely to consume garlic in their diet.

High doses of garlic appear to improve blood pressure for those with known high blood pressure (hypertension). In some instances, supplements may be as effective as regular medications.

Garlic supplements help prevent and reduce the severity of common illnesses like the flu and common cold. Although research is limited, some studies show individuals were less likely to get a cold after taking garlic supplements. This is thought to be because of garlic’s antimicrobial and antibiotic properties, which stop the growth of unwanted organisms.

It contains cancer-fighting characteristics. Significant evidence suggests that garlic can play a role in the prevention of cancer and the slowing of its progression. Garlic’s rich phytochemical content delivers its potential cholesterol-lowering and cancer-fighting characteristics. Phytochemicals are chemical compounds found in plants that protect cells from damage that lead to cancer.

Garlic contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and aging. It may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

It acts as a natural antibiotic. Garlic has significant antibacterial properties that help protect against certain infections. This is particularly important for strains resistant to antibiotics, including MRSA. Though it should not replace treatment by your physician, garlic can offer protective benefits as a supplement.

Garlic help to clear your skin. Because of its antibacterial properties, garlic can help reduce swelling and inflammation from acne. Although some people suggest using topically to treat skin conditions from acne to athlete’s foot, 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.

Dosage

The effective dosage of garlic has not been determined. Dosages generally recommended in the publications for adults are 4g (one to two cloves) of raw garlic per day, one 300-mg dried garlic powder tablet (standardized to 1.3 percent alliin or 0.6 percent allicin yield) two to three times per day, or 7.2 g of aged garlic extract per day.

Garlic's Side Effects & Safety

Common side effects (especially when eating raw garlic) may include:

• unpleasant breath or body odor;

• heartburn, burning in your mouth or throat;

• nausea, vomiting, gas or

• diarrhea

Stop using garlic and call your healthcare provider at once if you experience the following:

• redness, swelling, or blistering (when applied to the skin); or

• easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums).

Special Precautions & Warnings

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice. Garlic taken by mouth in large doses may be harmful to children.

Avoid consuming garlic if you have:

Bleeding disorder: Garlic, especially fresh garlic, might increase the risk of bleeding.

Diabetes: Garlic can lower blood sugar. In theory, taking garlic might make blood sugar too low in people with diabetes.

Stomach or digestion problems: Garlic can irritate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Use with caution if you have stomach or digestion problems.

Low blood pressure: Garlic can lower blood pressure. In theory, taking garlic might make blood pressure become too low in people with low blood pressure.

Surgery: Garlic might prolong bleeding and interfere with blood pressure. Garlic might also lower blood sugar levels. Stop taking garlic at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Everyone knows that garlic is widely used as food flavors, and garlic's health benefits are abundant but don't add too much to your diet too quickly. It is best to know better when not to take garlic for the safety of your health.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-garlic

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-300/garlic#:~:text=When%20taken%20by%20mouth%2C%20garlic,increase%20the%20risk%20of%20bleeding.

https://www.drugs.com/mtm/garlic.html