When we hear the word garlic, the first thing that comes to our mind
is the distinct smell and after-taste of this wonder food. Garlic has
been used as both food and medicine in many cultures for thousands of
years, dating as far back as the time when the Egyptian pyramids were
built. It is believed that Ancient Egyptians worshiped garlic and
placed clay models of garlic bulbs in the tomb of Tutankhamen.
Most
of us are aware of the culinary uses of garlic. However, garlic also
has many medicinal uses, so the next time you go shopping, make sure
that you include it in your shopping cart! Garlic is claimed to help
prevent a wide range of diseases, ranging from common cold and diabetes
to heart disease and cancer. The possible role of garlic in the
prevention or treatment of these diseases is attributed to the photochemical and nutrients present in this tiny bulb. When crushed,
garlic produces a photochemical allicin, a powerful antibiotic and anti fungal compound. It also contains many nutrients like B vitamins and
minerals such as calcium, zinc, selenium and flavonoids.
A lot of
research has focused on the benefits of garlic on the heart. Studies
have shown that garlic supplementation reduces the accumulation of
cholesterol in vascular arteries, and inhibits the hardening of these
arteries. It may alsohelp to reduce LDL or bad cholesterol levels, as
well as having blood thinning properties.
Garlic has also been
seen to help regulate blood sugar levels. Regular prolonged use of
garlic as a medicine can also prevent the complications of type II
diabetes.
Modern naturopaths use garlic in the treatment of
intestinal worms or parasites. In addition, garlic cloves are used as a
remedy for the common cold, chest infections, digestive disorders, and
fungal, yeast and viral infections.
Did you know?
In
1858, the scientist behind the process of pasteurization, Louis
Pasteur, identified the antibacterial properties of garlic. It was then
used as an antiseptic to prevent gangrene during World War 1.
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