What are the health benefits of Garlic?

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Garlic has long been used in herbal medicine and is popularly referred to as “herbal wonder drug” for its ability to cure common ailments as well as major diseases. Garlic has a unique combination of sulphur nutrients and flavonoids that has been scientifically proved to be beneficial if taken regularly as part of one’s diet. Garlic is regularly used in cooking to add taste, aroma and flavor to the dishes apart from making it nutritious and healthy.

Garlic has long been used in herbal medicine and is popularly referred to as “herbal wonder drug” for its ability to cure common ailments as well as major diseases. Garlic has a unique combination of sulphur nutrients and flavonoids that has been scientifically proved to be beneficial if taken regularly as part of one’s diet. Garlic is regularly used in cooking to add taste, aroma and flavor to the dishes apart from making it nutritious and healthy. The recommended portion of garlic is at least half a clove for individual consumption or 1-2 cloves in any recipe.

What are the chemical constituents of Garlic?

The main active compounds of garlic are diallyl sulphides and allicin which contribute to the health benefits of garlic. Garlic has a strong sulphur content which increases its medicinal value. It has been claimed that organic garlic tastes better and has a higher level of sulphur that is more beneficial to health. Garlic is considered a “seleniferous” plant by scientists as it is a good and reliable source of selenium.

What are the health benefits of Garlic?

Since long, garlic has been used for its healing properties and many of its health benefits have been scientifically proved.

• Anti-oxidant: Garlic has antioxidant elements that protect the body against harmful free radicals. Aged garlic and fermented black garlic seem to have a higher level of antioxidants than normal garlic.
• Improves Iron Metabolism: The diallyl sulfides contained in garlic increases the production of ferroportin, a protein that ensures that the iron is utilized effectively by the body.
• Cardiovascular Benefits: The red blood cells make use of the polysulfides present in garlic to produce H2S. This in turn ensures the blood vessels work efficiently keeping the blood pressure at a healthy level. The cardio protection provided by garlic is best rendered when it is taken in food form rather than extracts or supplements.
• Cervical and Back Pain: Garlic is regarded as an effective remedy to treat cervical pain. The beneficial effect of garlic can be felt when three to four cloves of garlic is consumed daily every morning. Alternatively, garlic can be applied externally on the affected area for relief from cervical and back pain. The method is to fry about twelve cloves of garlic in sixty grams of oil and allow the oil to cool. The oil can then be applied on the affected area and allowed to remain for a couple of hours before taking a hot shower. For best results, the treatment should be carried on for at least two weeks

What are the side-effects of Garlic?

• Regular intake may produce garlic breath which many consider offensive dissuading them to consume it in its natural form.
• Raw garlic is pungent and may damage the sensitive digestive tract. So one should exercise caution while using garlic and never over do it.
• Some people may be allergic to garlic and may develop symptoms such as temperature, skin rash or headaches.
• According to research studies published in 2001, garlic supplements when taken with medications to treat HIV and AIDS, may result in harmful side-effects.

For more information on Garlic, click on the links below: 

Can people be allergic to Garlic

Treating Cervical pain with Herbs

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