Garlic (Allium sativum), an herb, belongs to the onion genus Allium, and is closely related to the onion, rakkyo, chive, leek, and shallot. It has been used by humans for thousands of years and was used in Ancient Egypt for both culinary purposes and its
therapeutic benefits. Records indicate that garlic was in use when the Giza pyramids were built, about five thousand years ago.
Garlic is used widely as a flavoring in cooking, has also been used as a medicine throughout ancient and modern history to prevent and treat a wide range of conditions and diseases. Garlic is best eaten raw. Cooking destroys the allicin compound that is responsible for the powerful healing effect of the garlic.
Health Benefits:
Vitamins and Minerals
Garlic is a great source of manganese, vitamin B1, B6 and C, tryptophan, selenium, calcium, phosphorous, copper and protein.
Powerful antibiotic
Garlic is known to destroy infection-causing viruses and bacteria, common cold and flu.
Protection against cancer
The selenium in garlic provides protection against cancer and heavy metal toxicty. Three pure organo-sulfur compounds from garlic – DAS, DADS and DATS – demonstrated efficacy in eradicating brain cancer cells, but DATS proved to be the most effective.
Heart Desease
The selenium in garlic provides protection against cancer and heavy metal toxicty. Three pure organo-sulfur compounds from garlic – DAS, DADS and DATS – demonstrated efficacy in eradicating brain cancer cells, but DATS proved to be the most effective.
High blood pressure
High doses of garlic appear to improve blood pressure of those with known high blood pressure (hypertension). In some instances, supplementation (as bg as 4 cloves of garlic per day) can be as effective as regular medications.
High cholesterol
For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15%
Garlic Contains Antioxidants That May Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Oxidative damage from free radicals contributes to the ageing process. Garlic contains antioxidants that support the body’s protective mechanisms against oxidative damage. The combined effects on reducing cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as the antioxidant properties, may help prevent common brain diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.