From the Guidelines
Garlic may have some benefits in preventing infections and reducing inflammation, but the current evidence is not strong enough to recommend it as a primary treatment. The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is not directly available in the provided evidence, but based on the available information, garlic contains compounds like allicin that have demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory studies 1. For potential benefits, consuming 1-2 fresh garlic cloves daily or taking 600-1200 mg of aged garlic extract supplements may provide some immune support. However, it is essential to note that garlic should complement, not replace, conventional medical treatments for infections or inflammatory conditions.
Some key points to consider when using garlic for its potential health benefits include:
- Crushing or chopping fresh garlic and letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking can activate its beneficial compounds.
- Garlic may enhance anticoagulant effects in people taking blood thinners, so it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before increasing garlic consumption.
- The antimicrobial effects of garlic work through allicin disrupting bacterial cell membranes and inhibiting certain enzymes, while anti-inflammatory benefits come from garlic's ability to suppress pro-inflammatory signaling pathways.
It is also important to consider the potential interactions between garlic and other medications, as well as its effects on various health conditions, such as bleeding disorders or diabetes 1. Overall, while garlic may have some benefits, it is crucial to approach its use with caution and consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or treatment plan.
From the Research
Evidence for Garlic's Effect on Infections and Inflammation
- Garlic has been used for its health qualities since 2600 BC, with early uses including the treatment of gastric infections, fevers, and diarrhea 2.
- The compound allicin in fresh garlic is responsible for its health benefits, which include antimicrobial effects and the reduction of cancer risks 2.
- Garlic has been scientifically proven to be effective against bacterial, viral, mycotic, and parasitic infections, and has properties that empower the immune system, anti-tumour effects, and antioxidant effects 3.
- Garlic has a wide spectrum of actions, including antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiprotozoal effects, as well as beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems 4.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Garlic
- Dietary garlic intake has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases 5.
- Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) has been shown to have greater therapeutic effects than fresh garlic, with S-allylcysteine (SAC) and S-allylmercaptocysteine (SAMC) being the major water-soluble organosulfurized compounds (OSCs) responsible for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory capacities 5.
- Polysulfides found in garlic have been shown to have significant biological activity, including antibiotic properties and the ability to cause the death of certain cancer cells 6.
Summary of Garlic's Health Benefits
- Garlic has been shown to have a range of health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, antioxidant effects, antimicrobial effects, and reduction of cancer risks 2, 3, 4.
- Garlic's anti-inflammatory effects make it a potential candidate for the treatment and prevention of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) 5.