Garlic is a highly flavorful vegetable that has been used throughout history, and it can provide multiple health benefits. Here is a brief look at the historic purposes of garlic, followed by some of the benefits you could get from taking a garlic concentrate supplement.
A Look at Garlic
Garlic is a vegetable which belongs to the lily family, along with the likes of onions and shallots. It has a unique, pungent flavor which for centuries has made it a predominant choice vegetable for cooking in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Garlic grows in the form of a bulb, with up to 20 cloves per bulb. These cloves have an outer paper-like skin which is peeled, and a pale, edible flesh within that is used in cooking, although it can also be consumed raw.
In addition to its culinary uses, garlic provides multiple health benefits. Historical records show garlic has been used as a natural medicine since ancient times in India, Europe, and elsewhere. Garlic has a few different healthful properties, and contains multiple vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, manganese, magnesium, and others.
One of the main natural chemicals in garlic is allicin, which is primarily responsible for garlic’s strong flavor. The more that garlic is chopped and processed, the more allicin is released, thereby increasing the strength of its flavor. Some people might prefer to avoid the strong flavor of garlic, but still want to attain its benefits by way of a supplement.
The Benefits of Supplemental Garlic
Combatting the common cold is one of the more renowned potential benefits of garlic. Studies show that supplementing with garlic extract can bolster the immune system. This is especially useful during cold and flu season, as garlic supplementation can reduce the symptoms and severity of both of these viral infections. This is because garlic has antiviral properties which combat the spread of viral agents within the body.
Managing blood pressure: Studies show that garlic, on account of its active natural ingredients, can reduce blood pressure in those with hypertension (high blood pressure). In fact, it can be similarly as effective as some hypertension medications, but with fewer side effects. This is likely due to allicin’s ability to limit a hormone which increases blood pressure, as well as its ability to help relax blood vessels.
Managing cholesterol: Garlic supplements have been shown to be of assistance to those afflicted with high cholesterol. Taking garlic can reduce blood levels of unhealthy low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, as well as total cholesterol levels. A garlic supplement is a worthwhile choice for managing cholesterol in the context of other healthy diet choices.
Reducing inflammation: Garlic contains a natural substance called diallyl disulfide which reduces the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This general inflammation-reducing effect has been noted to be helpful in reducing joint and muscle soreness.
Preventing cognitive decline is an important potential benefit of garlic, and it is done by way of its natural antioxidant properties. Reducing oxidative stress lowers the risk of dementia and dementia-related diseases including Alzheimer’s disease. This is due, in part, to the active ingredient allicin. Some studies suggest that garlic supplements could directly benefit individuals who already have Alzheimer’s disease.
Garlic is a natural vegetable, and its benefits are available in the form of a concentrated oral supplement as well as several other consumable versions. Consider how these benefits might apply to you, your health, and that of your loved ones. Talk to your healthcare provider before trying a new supplement.