Almost everyone is familiar with the use of garlic in foods. However, garlic is also used medicinally, either in supplements or in raw or cooked form. Most often, people take it for heart health, but it is claimed to provide other health benefits as well.
It is thought that there are a few different active components in garlic, including allicin, ajoene, and S-allyl-L-cysteine. Some forms have more of these active components than others. For instance, freeze-dried preparations contain very little allicin.
For treating
high cholesterol, garlic is thought to work by decreasing the production of
cholesterol in the liver. It may also have antioxidant effects, which may protect the blood vessels from hardening. In addition, garlic has several effects that "thin" the blood, perhaps reducing the risk of blood clots, but which may also increase the risk of bleeding. For treating
high blood pressure, garlic may help to relax the blood vessels and cause them to dilate (open wider), actions that may help
lower blood pressure.
Garlic may also have antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer properties.
Garlic is clearly not the "cure-all" that it is often claimed to be.
However, it may be effective for a number of different uses
(see Does Garlic Work? for more information).
It is difficult to recommend a universal dosage, because there are so many different forms of garlic, each of which may contain various amounts of the active components.
Garlic can cause several side effects, such as:
- Garlicky breath and body odor
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Severe skin irritation and scarring (when applied directly to the skin).
(Click Garlic Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Are There Any Safety Issues?
Normal consumption of garlic through food is probably safe for most people, although medicinal use can cause serious problems. Some people are more likely than others to experience problems. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking it medicinally if you have:
- A bleeding disorder
- Ulcers, heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- An upcoming surgery or procedure
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Is Garlic Safe? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not known what exactly to expect from a garlic overdose, but it is reasonable to assume that taking too much of it may cause the usual side effects, but perhaps more severely. Theoretically, an overdose may cause severe problems, such as internal bleeding.
How Should Garlic Be Stored?
Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how best to store it. Keep the supplements out of the reach of children. Unpeeled garlic cloves are best stored in a cool, dry, dark, well-ventilated area (don't keep them in a sealed container or plastic bag).
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