IS GARLIC A NATURAL ANTIBIOTIC?

Garlic, a plant with a unique position throughout history, has a wide range of uses from cultural kitchens to ancient remedies. It is particularly among the onion-type plants commonly used in conditions such as infections and the common cold.

What Are the Benefits of Garlic?

Known to have been used for medicinal purposes by the Egyptians in history, garlic is still used today in the treatment of various disorders such as infections, the common cold, diabetes, heart disease, and more. Clinically, it has been evaluated not only for lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose concentration but also for preventing arterial hardening and cancer. Epidemiologically, garlic consumption is inversely related to the risk of oral, stomach, esophageal, colon, and prostate cancer.

Is Garlic a Natural Antibiotic?

Garlic exhibits antibiotic effects with its compounds sulfoside and allicin. While fighting against bacteria, it also prevents the reproduction of different bacterial species. Allicin and sulfur content play a lethal role against parasites. Due to these components, garlic supports the health of beneficial microorganisms in the intestinal flora, unlike chemical antibiotics.

Garlic and Cancer

Numerous studies have investigated the protective effect of garlic against cancer. This protection may arise from various biological activities: enhanced antioxidant defense, lowering of blood lipids, prevention of blood clotting, cessation of the cancer cell cycle/apoptosis increase, prevention of invasion or metastasis, and modulation of drug metabolism and cancer cell functions. Garlic, with its sulfur compounds and sulfur, is a potent antioxidant.

Garlic and Cardiovascular Disorders

Garlic has benefits in diagnoses such as hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes, which are among the leading cardiovascular diseases. The high allicin content in garlic is known to lower high blood pressure. The effects of garlic on cardiovascular health include balancing blood pressure, supporting the maintenance of healthy circulation, assisting in preventing atherosclerosis (accumulation of plaques causing artery blockage), preventing blood clots, and averting thrombosis (eliminating the tendency of cells forming clots). 

Positive Effect of Garlic on Sexual Health

Garlic, with its E vitamin content, has a positive effect on the secretion of sex hormones: it supports the secretion of important hormones like estrogen and progesterone in women and plays a positive role in sperm quality in men. Its effects on blood flow balance also comprehensively support sexual health.

How Should Garlic Be Consumed?

Garlic is a plant whose benefits depend on the method of consumption. The release of allicin depends on the breaking of the membrane. Crushing, grinding, or cutting a fresh and firm garlic releases the enzyme that catalyzes allicin very quickly. Garlic can be consumed either raw or by steaming. However, if there is a diagnosed illness, it is advisable to consult a physician before consumption for a healthier approach.