Garlic

Better Nutrition, June, 2005 by Amber D. Ackerson

PART USED Bulb

USES

* Uses approved by the German Commission E (GCE) and World Health Organization (WHO): To prevent atherosclerosis and reduce high cholesterol in conjunction with dietary measures, and to improve blood flow in peripheral vascular disease

* Other uses: Help combat intestinal parasites, fungat infections including athlete's foot and topical, oral, intestinal or vaginal yeast (candida) overgrowth

* Historical/traditional use: Respiratory, ear and throat infections, intestinal parasites, poor digestion, and as a culinary spice

RECOMMENDED FORMS AND AMOUNTS

* Aged garlic extract: 2-7 grams daily, in divided doses

* Infusion (tea): 4 grams in 150 mL water daily, in divided doses

* Tincture (alcohol extract in a 1:5 concentration): 20 mL daily, in divided doses

* Fresh garlic: 4 grams (1-2 cloves) per day

* Standardized coated tablets: 300mg two to three times daily

* Fluid extract (alcohol extract in a 1:1 concentration): 4 mL daily, in divided doses

MECHANISM OF ACTION Garlic helps to prevent atherosclerosis by reducing platelet stickiness (aggregation) and promoting the breakdown of fibrin in the blood. Garlic acts as a blood thinner, which is beneficial for most people--especially those at risk of heart disease. Some studies have found that people who eat garlic regularly have a reduced incidence of colon, esophageal, and stomach cancer.

CONTRAINDICATIONS People scheduled for surgery or on blood thinners such as warfarin or high doses of aspirin should not take substantial amounts of garlic. People allergic to garlic should not take it in any form.

DRUG INTERACTIONS Large amounts of garlic can increase the anticoagulant effects of pharmaceutical blood thinners (warfarin, high dose aspirin).