Spices & Herbs: Garlic

Throughout ancient history, garlic was used mainly for its medicinal properties.  Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, used to prescribe garlic to treat a variety of medical conditions.  Modern science has confirmed many of these beneficial health effects.  It is garlic’s sulfur compounds that bring these benefits.

Garlic supplements have been shown to boost the immune system and combat common illnesses like the cold or flu.

Human studies have shown that, given in high doses, garlic supplements may improve blood pressure in those with hypertension.  In some cases, supplements may be as effective as regular medication.

Garlic appears to reduce levels of total and LDL cholesterol in those diagnosed with high cholesterol.  A reduction in LDL cholesterol may lower the risk of heart disease.

The antioxidants in garlic protect against cell damage and aging. It is believed that garlic may reduce the risk of common brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.

A study has shown that, at high doses, garlic’s sulfur compounds protects against organ damage from heavy metal toxicity.  It has even outperformed prescribed medication in reducing symptoms.

 

 

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