Garlic Supplements

Unlock The Power of Garlic Supplements

Garlic (Allium sativum) has a long and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. It has been used in myriad culinary and medicinal applications in various cultures throughout the world. Garlic is believed to have originated in Central Asia, possibly in the region of present-day Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, or Kazakhstan. It is one of the oldest cultivated plants, with evidence of its existence dating back over 5,000 years. The ancient Sumerians, Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans all valued garlic both as food and medicine. Garlic remains a popular ingredient in culinary traditions and a popular supplements. Many enjoy its enticing flavour profile that may best be described as spicy, savoury, and slightly sweet.

Indeed, garlic has a strong and sharp taste that can be felt as a slight burning sensation in the mouth. It also has an earthy quality that adds depth to dishes and can bring a robust and grounding element to various recipes. This explains why it is used in a wide variety of dishes, ranging from savoury to sauces, marinades, and more.

Beyond its flavour and aroma, garlic contains several bioactive compounds that impart with its multiple health benefits. These include: 

• Allicin is one of the most well-known and studied compounds in garlic. It has been shown to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. 
• Sulphur Compounds, including diallyl sulphide, diallyl disulphide, and diallyl trisulfide, contribute to garlic's distinctive smell and taste. These have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 
• S-allyl cysteine is a stable and bioavailable form of allicin formed during the aging or cooking of garlic. S-allyl cysteine has potent cholesterol-lowering effects and promotes liver health.
• Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, with robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These flavonoids also have cardiovascular benefits and help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
• Organosulfur Compounds, including ajoene and vinyldithiins, have been studied for their potential anticancer properties. Indeed, some research has shown that these compounds may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (cell death) in certain types of cancer, though more research is needed to elucidate this potential.

Medicinal Uses & Health Benefits For Garlic & Health Benefits

Garlic supplements have long been prized in traditional medicine systems. It has been employed notably for its antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties. Moreover, research has shown that garlic has profound cardiovascular benefits and can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It can also improve circulation, prevent blood clot formation, and help reduce inflammation. 

In addition, garlic has immune-boosting properties. It can stimulate and enhance the activity of immune cells, which helps fight off infections and can help reduce the severity of colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. Garlic is also great forpromoting a healthy digestive system by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes, regulating gut flora, and improving the absorption of nutrients. It is also a natural antimicrobial used to combat all sorts of infections and bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Lastly, 

garlic is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the body against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

Garlic Supplement Varieties

Fresh raw garlic is highly nutritious and can be added to all sorts of dishes to enhance the overall nutrient profile of the meal. However, garlic supplements are the way to go if you're looking for therapeutic doses.

Garlic supplements come in capsules, softgels, tablets, or liquids that feature concentrated garlic extract or garlic oil, which are processed and standardized to contain specific amounts of active compounds, such as allicin. Some garlic supplements are also available in powdered form or as enteric-coated tablets to prevent GI symptoms and minimize odour. 

A standard dosage range for garlic supplements is 600 to 1,200 milligrams (mg) daily, divided into multiple doses. However, the correct dose for you will be a function of your overall health status and the purpose for which you are taking the supplement.

Final Thoughts On Garlic Supplements 

Garlic supplements are extremely well tolerated, though they can occasionally cause certain side effects. These are primarily digestive in nature, such as heartburn, upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea, especially when taken in large amounts or on an empty stomach. 

Although rare, some individuals may develop an allergic reaction to garlic. Symptoms can range from mild skin rashes to more severe reactions like difficulty breathing. If you experience any allergic symptoms, discontinue use, and consult your health care practitioner.

Because garlic has anticoagulant properties, it should not be used in those with a bleeding disorder or taking blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin). For this same reason, stopping garlic supplements at least two weeks before any scheduled surgical procedures is generally recommended. Last but not least, it’s important to note that garlic may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and some HIV medications.

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