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Photo copyright Steven Foster |
Garlic (Allium sativum)
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Photo copyright Steven Foster |
Parts used and where grown: Garlic is closely related to onion and chives. The largest commercial garlic production is in central California. The bulb is used.
In what conditions might garlic be supportive?
In what conditions might garlic be supportive (continued)?
Historical or traditional use: Garlic is mentioned in the Bible and the Talmud. Hippocrates, Galen, Pliny the Elder, and Dioscorides all mention the use of garlic for a large number of conditions, including parasites, respiratory problems, poor digestion, and low energy. Its use in China was first mentioned in A.D. 510. Louis Pasteur confirmed the antibacterial action of garlic in 1858.
Active constituents: The sulfur compound allicin, produced by crushing or chewing fresh garlic, in turn produces other sulfur compounds: ajoene, allyl sulfides, and vinyldithiins.
Circulatory Effects: More than 250 publications have shown that garlic supports the cardiovascular system. It may lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, inhibit platelet stickiness (aggregation), and increase fibrinolysis—which results in a slowing of blood coagulation. It is mildly antihypertensive and has antioxidant activity.1 2
Note: Garlic only keeps clotting in check, a benefit for persons at risk for cardiovascular disease. It cannot effectively replace stronger anticlotting drugs; its primary value is as a preventive.
Antimicrobial Actions: Garlic has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity.3 It may work against some intestinal parasites. Garlic appears to have roughly 1% the strength of penicillin against certain types of bacteria. This means it’s not a substitute for antibiotics, but it can be considered as a support against some bacterial infections. Candida albicans growth is inhibited by garlic, and garlic has shown long-term benefit for recurrent yeast infections.
Anticancer Actions: Human population studies show that eating garlic regularly reduces the risk of esophageal, stomach, and colon cancer.4 This is partly due to garlic’s ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds. Animal and test tube studies also show that garlic, and its sulfur compounds, inhibit the growth of different types of cancer—especially breast and skin tumors.
How much should I take? Some people chew one whole clove of raw garlic per day. For those who prefer it, odor-controlled, enteric-coated tablets or capsules with standardized allicin potential can be taken at 400-500 mg once or twice per day (providing up to 5,000 mcg of allicin). Alternatively, a tincture of 2-4 ml can be taken three times daily.
Are there any side effects or interactions? Most people enjoy garlic; however, some individuals who are sensitive to it may experience heartburn and flatulence. Because of garlic’s anticlotting properties, persons taking anticoagulant drugs should check with their nutritionally oriented doctor before taking garlic. Those scheduled for surgery should inform their surgeon if they are taking garlic supplements. There are no known contraindications to the use of garlic during pregnancy and lactation.
References:
1. Kleijnen J, Knipschild P, Ter Riet G. Garlic, onion
and cardiovascular risk factors: A review of the evidence from human experiments with
emphasis on commercially available preparations. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1989;
28:535-44.
2. Legnani C, Frascaro M, et al. Effects of a dried garlic
preparation on fibrinolysis and platelet aggregation in healthy subjects. Arzneim-Forsch
Drug Res 1993; 43:119-22.
3. Hughes BG, Lawson LD. Antimicrobial effects of Allium sativum L. (garlic), Allium
ampeloprasum L. (elephant garlic) and Allium cepa L. (onion), garlic compounds
and commercial garlic supplement products. Phytother Res 1991; 5:154_8.
4. Dorant E, vander Brandt PA, et al. Garlic and its
significance for the prevention of cancer in humans: A critical review. Br J Cancer
1993; 67: 424-9.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.
