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I want to start this post out by saying I am not a doctor. I am a researcher, and you will find all of my information is linked in my articles. As always, check with a healthcare provider before changing your medicinal routine. I have to say that.
Garlic isn’t just for warding off vampires or adding flavor to your favorite dishes – it’s a potent natural remedy that’s been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments. Let’s take a look at what makes garlic such a powerful healing tool and why you should consider adding it to your wellness routine.
Let’s start with what the hell garlic is
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a plant in the onion family, known for its strong flavor and potent medicinal properties. The real magic of garlic lies in its sulfur compounds, particularly allicin, which is formed when garlic is chopped, crushed, or chewed. Allicin is responsible for garlic’s antibacterial, antiviral, and anti fungal properties, making it a natural powerhouse for fighting infections (Whole Health Associates).
The history of garlic
Garlic’s history as a medicinal herb dates back over 5,000 years, with ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Greens, and Romans using it to boost strength, ward off illnesses, and even enhance courage on the battlefield. In ancient Egypt, garlic was fed to slaves to increase their endurance and strength, while Greek athletes consumed it before competitions as a performance enhancer (Old Farmer’s Almanac). Fast forward to today, and garlic is still celebrated for its broad spectrum of health benefits, supported by modern scientific research.
Healing properties of garlic: what makes it so damn good?
Garlic’s medicinal benefits are vast and varies. Here’s a rundown of its key healing properties:
Antimicrobial & Antifungal
Garlic’s allicin has been shown to inhibit the growth of various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus & Escherichia coli, as well as fungi like Candida. This makes garlic an effective natural remedy for infections, particularly those affecting the respiratory and digestive systems (Whole Health Associates).
If you’d like to learn about other natural alternatives to antibiotics, check out The Natural Alternatives to Antibiotics: Mother Nature’s Own Antibacterial Arsenal
Detoxification & Heavy Metal Chelation:
Garlic is known for its detoxifying properties, particularly its ability to bind with and help excrete heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium from the body. This make it a valuable tool for detoxification and protecting against environmental toxins (Whole Health Associates).
Anti-Cancer Properties
Emerging research suggests that garlic may have anti-cancer effects. Compounds like allicin and diallyl trisulfide in garlic have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in various cancer types, particularly colorectal and stomach cancers (Whole Health Associates).
Cardiovascular Health
Garlic is well-known for its ability to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve overall heart health. These benefits are largely due to garlic’s sulfur compounds, which help relax blood vessels and improve circulation (Healthline).
Digestive Health
Garlic supports digestive health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and alleviating symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas. Its prebiotic properties make it a great addition to a gut-friendly diet (Whole Health Associates).
Anti-Inflammatory
Good news, garlic also offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Garlic has a little best friend called diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that limits the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. If you have sore and inflamed joints or muscles, you can rub them with garlic oil (VCU Health).
Why isn’t garlic in every medicine cabinet?
Despite its powerful healing properties, garlic isn’t widely used in mainstream medicine for several reasons. One of the main reasons is the lack of large-scale clinical trials that meet the rigorous standards of modern medicine (I find this humorous). While there’s plenty of evidence supporting garlic’s benefits, the medical community often prioritizes treatments that have undergone “extensive” testing.
Additionally, the strong odor and taste of garlic can be a turn-off for many people, making it less desirable as a daily supplement (this is how we promote mango flavored cancer pills). Some people may also experience digestive discomfort or allergic reactions when consuming garlic, especially in large quantities.
How to use garlic for healing
Garlic can be used in various forms to harness its health benefits:
Raw Garlic
Eating raw garlic is the best way to maximize its allicin content. You can mince it into salads, add it to dressings, or simply swallow small chopped pieces with water like a pill. To get the most benefit, let chopped garlic sit for 10-15 minutes before consuming to allow the allicin to fully form (Whole Health Associates).
Cooked Garlic
If you’re not the kind of person that likes to sit and munch on raw garlic, and let’s be honest you’re probably not, there is another way. While cooking garlic reduces its allicin content, it still retains many beneficial properties, particularly for heart health. Add garlic toward the end of the cooking process to preserve as much of its goodness as possible (Healthline).
Garlic Supplements
Okay let’s be honest – supplements are never as good as the real thing. Though it’s always best to eat it as fresh as possible, there are garlic supplements. Supplements like garlic oil, powder, or aged garlic extract are available. Aged garlic extract, in particular, is popular for its cardiovascular benefits without the strong odor (Whole Health Associates).
Health warnings before using garlic
Like everything – garlic does not come without risks… but take a look at the possible risk for your harmless blood pressure medication. Oh boy. Let’s talk about the risks of garlic for healing.
Gastrointestinal issues
Raw garlic, particularly in large amounts, can irritate the digestive tract. This can lead to symptoms like nausea, heartburn, gas, and diarrhea, especially in people with sensitive stomachs or those prone to digestive disorders like acid reflux or IBS (Healthline).
Blood thinning effects
Garlic has natural blood-thinning properties, which can be beneficial for heart health but dangerous if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin. Consuming large amounts of garlic or garlic supplements could increase the risk of bleeding, particularly during surgery or if you suffer from a bleeding disorder (Mayo Clinic).
Allergic reactions
Just like everything else – some people may be allergic to garlic, especially when consumed raw. Symptoms of a garlic allergy can include skin rashes, asthma, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. If you experience any allergic symptoms after consuming garlic, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare provider (WebMD).
Potential drug interactions
Garlic can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, anticoagulants, and some heart medications. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using garlic as a remedy if you are on any prescription drugs (MayoClinic).
Risk for pregnant & breastfeeding women
Use with caution: While garlic is generally safe to eat in food amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding, high doses or supplements are not recommended due to a lack of sufficient research on its effects during pregnancy (Healthline).
Odor and breath issues
A more benign but socially relevant issue is garlic’s strong odor, which can linger on your breath and skin. While this isn’t a health risk, it’s something to consider if you’re planning on being around others after consuming large amounts of garlic.
the gist
the good shit
•NATURAL GERM SLAYER: Garlic is like nature’s own hitman for bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Allicin doesn’t just sound badass; it actually kicks microbial ass, too.
•HEART’S BEST FRIEND: Garlic can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, meaning you might just survive that next family dinner argument. And hey, it’s way cheaper than a cardiologist.
•DETOX CHAMP: Got heavy metals lurking in your body? Garlic’s your guy. It binds to those nasties and shows them the door – detox like a boss.
•CANCER’S WORST NIGHTMARE: Research suggests garlic may help keep certain cancers at bay. It’s like that friend who doesn’t just hold your drink but keeps the creeps away, too.
•EASY TO USE: Whether you’re tossing it in a salad, sautéing it with veggies or popping a supplement, garlic is versatile AF. It’s basically the Swiss Army knife of the kitchen.
THE BULLSHIT
•GUT GRENADE: Raw garlic can be a bit too real, causing heartburn, gas, or making your stomach do the cha-cha. It’s powerful, but your gut might not thank you.
•BLOOD THINNER ALERT: Garlic might be too good at thinning your blood, which is great unless you’re on meds for that. Don’t want to bleed out from a paper cut? Maybe lay off the garlic.
•ALLERGIC DRAMA: Some folks break out in rashes of wheeze like they’ve fin run a marathon after garlic. If your skin starts looking like a tomato, time to rethink your life choices.
•BREATH OF DOOM: Forget minty fresh – after a garlic binge, your breath could clear a room. Or a building. Or a small town. Not idea for date night.
•MEDICATION MIX: Garlic likes to mess with your meds, especially if you’re on blood thinners or heart drugs. Think twice before playing kitchen chemist.
the verdict
Garlic is more than just a kitchen staple—it’s a potent natural remedy with a long history of use and a growing body of scientific evidence to back it up. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, detoxify your body, or support heart health, garlic is a versatile and effective option. So, go ahead and embrace the stinking rose—your body will thank you.
Stay informed, stay empowered, and remember: knowledge is your best defense against bullshit!
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