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Garlic
Garlic
Garlic is a spice called as “Rasona” in Ayurveda. It is a popular ingredient in cooking due to its strong smell and medicinal properties. It is rich in sulphur compounds that attributes to various health benefits. Garlic has antibacterial, antifungal, cardioprotective, immunostimulant and anticancer properties. It helps to manage high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart diseases. Eating raw Garlic causes bad breath so it is advisable to brush your teeth or eat some mint to get rid of the bad breath[2][3].
What are the synonyms of Garlic?
Allium sativum, Rasona, Yavanesta, Maharu, Lasun, Lasan, Lassun, Lahasun, Bulluci, Vellulli, Nelluthulli, Vellaipoondu, Vellulli, Tellapya, Tellagadda, Lahsan, Seer[1]
What is the source of Garlic?
Plant Based
Benefits of Garlic
Modern Science View
Garlic is beneficial in managing atherosclerosis. Allicin in Garlic has lipid lowering and antioxidant properties. Garlic inhibits the uptake of bad cholesterol and increases the level of good cholesterol in the body. Garlic inhibits deposition of bad cholesterol and prevents plaque formation in the blood vessels. Garlic reduces lipid peroxidation and damage of blood vessels[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
Garlic helps to manage atherosclerosis by reducing bad cholesterol. This is because high cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Including Garlic in the daily diet improves Agni and corrects impaired digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Garlic helps to manage diabetes by regulating blood glucose levels[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Regular intake of Garlic helps to correct impaired digestion and reduces Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3.Have it once or twice a day.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3.Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Garlic helps to manage high cholesterol by reducing the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver. It decreases the level of bad cholesterol and increases the level of good cholesterol[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Garlic helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins and helps to maintain healthy heart due to its Hrdya (cardiac tonic) nature.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Garlic is used to manage high blood pressure. Garlic has anti-hypertensive and antioxidant properties. It helps to control lipid levels and prevents damage caused by free radicals[4][7][9].
Modern Science View
Garlic is beneficial for the management of prostate cancer. Garlic has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Garlic prevents the multiplication and growth of cancer cells[4][7].
Modern Science View
Garlic might be beneficial for reducing the risk of stomach cancer. It has antioxidant and anticancer activities. Garlic increases the level of natural antioxidants and prevents DNA damage[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama causing an imbalance in meda dhatu. Garlic is useful to control obesity as it helps improve metabolism and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It balances Meda dhatu and thus reduces obesity.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day to manage weight.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day to manage weight.
Modern Science View
Garlic might be beneficial for the management of colon cancer. It has antioxidant and anticancer activities. It increases the level of natural antioxidants and prevents DNA damage[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
Garlic helps to control cough associated with common cold when used in the daily diet or if taken with honey. A cough is a common ailment, which usually happens with cold. It is commonly known as Kapha disorder in Ayurveda. A cough is generally caused by the accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract. Eating Garlic helps to reduce Kapha due to its Kapha balancing property and also expel out accumulated mucus from the respiratory tract due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon Honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon Honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
How effective is Garlic?
Likely effective
Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries), Diabetes, High cholesterol ABC, Hypertension (high blood pressure), Insect bite, Prostate cancer
Likely ineffective
Breast cancer, Lung cancer, Pre-eclampsia, Preventing mosquito bites
Insufficient evidence
Athletic performance, Cancer of colon and rectum, Cancer of mouth, nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses, larynx, oesophagus, Chest pain (Angina), Common cold symptoms, Fibrocystic Breast Disease, Heart disease, Muscle building, Obesity, Stomach cancer
Precautions when using Garlic
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
1. Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding. So, it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking. Garlic with anticoagulant drugs[4].
2. Avoid taking Garlic if you have stomach problems[4].
2. Avoid taking Garlic if you have stomach problems[4].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Garlic in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Garlic supplements during breastfeeding[4].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
1. Garlic may interact with the absorption of birth control pills. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with birth control pills[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of immunosuppressant drugs. So, it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with immunosuppressant drugs[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of immunosuppressant drugs. So, it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with immunosuppressant drugs[4].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Garlic may lower blood sugar level. So, it is generally advised to monitor your blood sugar while taking Garlic with other anti-diabetic drugs[4].
Patients with heart disease
Important
Modern Science View
Garlic may lower the blood pressure level. So, it is generally advised to monitor your blood pressure while taking Garlic with other antihypertensive drugs[4].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Garlic in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Garlic supplements during pregnancy[4].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Bad breath
2. Burning sensation in the mouth or stomach
3. Heartburn
4. Gas
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Body odor
8. Diarrhea
9. Asthma[4].
2. Burning sensation in the mouth or stomach
3. Heartburn
4. Gas
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Body odor
8. Diarrhea
9. Asthma[4].
severe medicine interaction
Modern Science View
1. Garlic may interact with the absorption of anti-tubercular drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with anti-tubercular drugs[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of HIV/AIDS medications. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with HIV/AIDS drugs[4].
3. Garlic may interact with the absorption of antiviral drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with antiviral drugs[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of HIV/AIDS medications. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with HIV/AIDS drugs[4].
3. Garlic may interact with the absorption of antiviral drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with antiviral drugs[4].
FAQs about Garlic precautions
Recommended Dosage of Garlic
- Garlic Juice - 1-2 teaspoon once or twice day.
- Garlic Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Garlic Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Garlic Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
How to use Garlic
1. Raw Garlic
a. Take 2-3 cloves of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
2. Garlic Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Garlic juice.
b. Add same quantity of water to it.
c. Drink it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
3. Garlic Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
4. Garlic Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Garlic tablet.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
a. Take 2-3 cloves of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
2. Garlic Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Garlic juice.
b. Add same quantity of water to it.
c. Drink it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
3. Garlic Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
4. Garlic Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Garlic tablet.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
Benefits of Garlic
Ayurvedic View
Ringworm or Dadru with itching and burning sensation is due to an imbalance of Kapha and Pitta dosha. Garlic helps to control fungal infections and itching associated with ringworm. This is due to its Kushtghna (useful in skin disease) and Kapha pacifying properties.
Tip:
1. Take ½-1 teaspoon Garlic juice.
2. Add coconut oil to it.
3. Apply to the affected area.
4. Repeat once or twice a day to control ringworm.
Tip:
1. Take ½-1 teaspoon Garlic juice.
2. Add coconut oil to it.
3. Apply to the affected area.
4. Repeat once or twice a day to control ringworm.
Modern Science View
Ulcers caused by a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
Modern Science View
Applying Garlic juice helps in the management of hair loss (alopecia areata)[4][8].
Ayurvedic View
Garlic helps to control hair fall and promote hair growth when applied on the scalp. This is because hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Garlic acts on hair fall by balancing Vata dosha. It also promotes hair growth and removes excessive dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 -1 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with honey in a bowl.
3. Apply this paste on your hair and scalp.
4. Leave it for about 30 minutes or more.
5. Rinse well using a shampoo.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 -1 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with honey in a bowl.
3. Apply this paste on your hair and scalp.
4. Leave it for about 30 minutes or more.
5. Rinse well using a shampoo.
Modern Science View
Applying Garlic extract might be beneficial in managing corns. Garlic extract has fibrinolytic activity. It helps to break the fibrin tissue around the corn and detaches it from the main tissue[4][8].
Modern Science View
Applying Garlic might be beneficial in managing warts. Garlic prevents the multiplication of infected cells and prevents the recurrence of warts[4][8].
Ayurvedic View
Warts are called Charmakeela in Ayurveda. Charma means skin and Keela refers to growth or eruption. Warts are due to vitiation of Vata along with Kapha. This causes the development of hard nail structures called Charmakeela (warts). Garlic helps to control warts when applied on the affected area due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties.
Tip
1. Peel one clove of Garlic and cut it into half.
2. Use the cut side of one portion of Garlic and gently rub on the wart.
3. Do this for 1-2 minute then use athletic tape to seal the remaining fresh Garlic on the wart.
4. Do this at night and remove the tape the next morning.
Tip
1. Peel one clove of Garlic and cut it into half.
2. Use the cut side of one portion of Garlic and gently rub on the wart.
3. Do this for 1-2 minute then use athletic tape to seal the remaining fresh Garlic on the wart.
4. Do this at night and remove the tape the next morning.
How effective is Garlic?
Likely effective
Athlete's foot (tinea pedis), Ringworm
Likely ineffective
Helicobacter pylori (H.Pylori) infection
Insufficient evidence
Corns, Fungal infections of mouth (Thrush), Fungal infections of vagina, Hair loss, Liver disease, Mouth sores, Warts
Precautions when using Garlic
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Garlic paste or oil should be used with rose water or coconut oil if someone has hypersensitive skin because Garlic has Tikshna (strong) and Ushna (hot) properties.
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Severe skin irritation[4].
Recommended Dosage of Garlic
- Garlic Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
How to use Garlic
1. Raw Garlic
a. Take 1-2 raw Garlic cloves.
b. Crush them in a pestle and mortar to form a paste.
c. Add rose water to it.
d. Apply on the affected area.
e. Let it sit for 2-3 hours.
f. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
g. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day to get rid of boils and ulcers.
2. Garlic Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Garlic oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Massage evenly on the skin at bedtime.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get bacterial and fungal infections.
a. Take 1-2 raw Garlic cloves.
b. Crush them in a pestle and mortar to form a paste.
c. Add rose water to it.
d. Apply on the affected area.
e. Let it sit for 2-3 hours.
f. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
g. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day to get rid of boils and ulcers.
2. Garlic Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Garlic oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Massage evenly on the skin at bedtime.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get bacterial and fungal infections.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Eating Garlic on an empty stomach turns it into a potent antibiotic. It is considered best to eat it before breakfast as it protects the digestive system due to its antibacterial effect[5].
Ayurvedic View
If Garlic is eaten on an empty stomach it helps promote digestive fire. It also keeps your digestion better due to its Deepan (appetizer) properties.
Modern Science View
Eating raw Garlic is best to get its maximum health benefits. This is because raw Garlic releases allicin, the principle constituent with health benefits.
Ayurvedic View
Garlic can be taken raw for getting maximum results. But if you have digestive problems like hyperacidity it is better to eat after cooking. This is because Garlic has Tikshna (Strong) and Ushna (hot) potency.
Modern Science View
1. Take raw Garlic with any oil like olive oil, sunflower oil etc.
2. Chew some mouth freshner like fresh mint, cardamom etc, fennel after eating raw Garlic.
3. Drink a small glass of milk, green tea or coffee
2. Chew some mouth freshner like fresh mint, cardamom etc, fennel after eating raw Garlic.
3. Drink a small glass of milk, green tea or coffee
Modern Science View
The best way to take Garlic in the morning is to swallow 2-3 pods of Garlic with lukewarm water.
Modern Science View
For maximum health benefits of Garlic it is generally advised to take it in raw form. This is because raw Garlic releases allicin, the principle constituent with health benefits.
Modern Science View
1. Nourishes your skin
2. Cures common cold and allergies
3. Strengthens immunity
4. Antimicrobial effects
5. Lowers bad cholesterol
6. Detoxifies the body
2. Cures common cold and allergies
3. Strengthens immunity
4. Antimicrobial effects
5. Lowers bad cholesterol
6. Detoxifies the body
Modern Science View
Garlic can cause burning sensation or stomach upset if taken in a large amount or if you have a history of hyperacidity. This is because Garlic has Tikshna (strong) and Ushna (hot) nature.
Modern Science View
Garlic has strong antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities and protects the liver from various diseases[6].
Ayurvedic View
No, in fact Garlic helps to improve digestion and liver functioning by promoting healthy Agni (digestive fire). It helps in quick digestion of food due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also clears the channels and activates enzymes that can flush out toxins from the liver.
Modern Science View
No, Garlic might reduce the risk of cancer. It contains a large number of potent bioactive compounds that have anticancer properties. Studies state that Garlic acts on the different stages of cancer cell metabolism such as mutagenesis, scavenging of free radicals, cell proliferation and differentiation[6].
Ayurvedic View
Sexual dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido i.e. having no inclination towards a sexual act. There can also be a low erection time or semen expelled soon after a sexual activity. This is also referred to as early discharge or premature ejaculation. Garlic helps to correct male sexual dysfunction and also improve stamina. This is due to its Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boil it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boil it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, an aggravated Vata dosha makes the nervous system sensitive which leads to Anidra (difficulty to sleep). The aroma of Garlic helps people with disturbed sleep due to its strong calming effects. This is because of its Vata balancing property.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Alam KMD, Hoq MO, Uddin MS.Medicinal plant Allium sativum = A Review.Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies 2016; 4(6): 72-79.
- Bhandari PR.Garlic (Allium sativum L.): A review of potential therapeutic applications.International Journal of Green Pharmacy.2012;6:118-29.
- WebMD.Garlic: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Adetumbi MA, Lau BH.Allium sativum (Garlic)--a natural antibiotic.Med Hypotheses. 1983;12(3):227-37.
- Bayan L, Koulivand PH,Gorji A.Garlic: a review of potential therapeutic effects.Avicenna J Phytomed. 2014;4(1): 1–14.
- Rana SV, Pal R, Vaiphei K, et al. Garlic in health and disease. Nutrition Research Reviews.2011;24:60–71.
- Pazyar N, Feily A. Garlic in dermatology. Dermatology Reports.2011;3(e4):5-7.
- Ried K, Fakler P. Potential of garlic (Allium sativum) in lowering high blood pressure: mechanisms of action and clinical relevance. Integrated Blood Pressure Control.2014;7:71–82.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.