Garlic is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat various health problems. It boasts an abundant supply of essential nutrients, such as various types of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
This herb is known to be a natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agent. Additionally, it helps lower blood pressure and regulate cholesterol levels within the body.
1. Reduces blood pressure
Garlic helps lower blood pressure by inhibiting angiotensin II, an enzyme responsible for increasing blood vessels’ contraction and constriction. It also boosts levels of hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide – two other blood pressure-reducing compounds.
Garlic comes in many forms, such as whole cloves, minced garlic, powders and supplements. When selecting your garlic for storage, always opt for fresh cloves that have been kept at a cool, dry location.
2. Fights cancer
Garlic has been found to inhibit cancer cell growth through a process known as cell cycle arrest.
Research is ongoing into whether fresh garlic can inhibit the growth of new blood vessels needed for cancer cells, leading to better treatments and therapies. To reap its full benefits, consume fresh garlic as often as possible – this will ensure all health advantages are absorbed.
3. Fights heart disease
Garlic contains compounds that help combat high cholesterol and the build-up of plaque in arteries, as well as helping to lower blood pressure.
At your supermarket, you can purchase whole garlic heads as well as individual cloves. Be sure to select garlic with firm heads that don’t have soft or sprouted cloves, and look for the freshest available stock.
4. Strengthens the immune system
The immune system is a complex network of organs and cells that fight off invading bacteria, viruses and other microscopic invaders. Garlic has long been touted as an effective immune booster due to its potent allicin content.
Garlic is an everyday ingredient in most supermarkets, making it one of the healthiest foods you can add to your diet.
5. Fights infections
Garlic can help prevent infections with its antiviral and immune-boosting properties. It may even aid in fighting food poisoning by eliminating bacteria and yeast.
Garlic contains organosulfur compounds which are responsible for its antibacterial and antiviral effects, including allicin and ajoene.
6. Reduces inflammation
Garlic is a widely-used culinary ingredient with numerous health advantages, one of which being its ability to reduce inflammation.
Garlic’s antioxidant power is well known, protecting your brain, eyes and cardiovascular system from free radicals that may lead to aging, heart disease or cancer. To maximize these advantages, try eating plenty of antioxidant-rich foods every day.
7. Fights diabetes
Garlic has many health benefits, one of which being its ability to combat diabetes. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, increase insulin secretion and lower the risk of heart problems in diabetics.
Bioactive compounds like allicin, found in garlic, can improve glycemic control. Furthermore, it reduces levels of amino acid homocysteine – an established risk factor for diabetes – which helps keep glucose under control.
8. Fights parasites
Garlic contains anti-parasitic properties that help to eliminate parasites like hookworms and pinworms. For best results, consume garlic raw or apply directly onto problem areas for relief.
Allicin, found in garlic, has been shown to strengthen the immune system and fight viruses. Furthermore, allicin has antimicrobial properties which may be effective against bacteria and fungi alike.
9. Fights fungi
Garlic has powerful antifungal properties that can combat a wide variety of fungi. If you have a fungal skin infection such as ringworm, applying garlic directly onto the affected area may help clear up the rash.
Garlic oil has long been recognized for its antifungal effects. Studies have demonstrated that it inhibits Candida albicans growth and downregulates some of its genes, helping reduce its severity.
10. Fights bad breath
Garlic is a common cooking ingredient with the added health benefit of fighting bad breath. It contains sulfur compounds which can travel through the bloodstream and eventually reach the lungs, where they cause unpleasant odours.
To prevent this, cut garlic cloves in half and take out the stem before adding them to your dish. Additionally, chew gum after eating to stimulate saliva production.
