Garlic
What is Garlic?
Garlic (Allium sativum) is mentioned for its curative powers as far back as the Bible and the Talmud, as well as in writings by many Roman and Greek historian/philosophers, including Hippocrates and Pliny the Elder.
The active component of garlic is a sulfur compound called allicin, which is produced when the garlic clove is broken. Allicin, in turn, becomes ajoene, allyl sulfide, and vinyldithiin.
Among garlic's known benefits are its ability to support the cardiovascular system's health, its action as an antioxidant, and its antibacterial powers. Warm garlic oil applied in the ear has been shown effective in treating mild ear infections. Garlic taken regularly is also effective in reducing the risk of stomach and colon cancers.
Contrary to commonly held opinion, garlic's strong flavor is actually enjoyed by breastfeeding children; it is not certain, however, how much of garlic's medicinal power is transmitted via breastmilk.
Natural sources for Garlic:
Increasing the amount of garlic used in cooking will offer many of the effects of a garlic supplement.
Garlic is useful in treating:
- Atherosclerosis: some animalstudies indicate that garlic may slow the progression of atherosclerosis.
- Garlic may lower High Cholesterol by approximately 10%.
- Garlic may lower High blood pressure by 5% to 10% more than placebo in some studies.
- One study showed that women who ingested garlic were 30% less likely to develop Colon Cancer.
- Garlic is sometimes used for Athlete's Foot, ear infections, HIV Support, vaginitis and yeast infection, with less supportive data. It is considered a topical antibiotic, but it is unclear if it possesses any activity when taken internally.
Recommended dosage for Garlic:
One whole clove daily, or 900 mg garlic (standardized to 1.3% alliin) daily.
Important Garlic Note:
Patients with bleeding disorders or who are taking anti-coagulants (warfarin, coumadin, pentoxifylline)should consult with a doctor before using a garlic supplement. Garlic and Ginkgo biloba together may predispose to bleeding in susceptible individuals. Garlic intolerance may result in heartburn or flatulence.
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