Garlic

Key Medicinal Uses for Garlic

Cholesterol Management: Did you know that Garlic lowers LDL cholesterol while maintaining HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. There are dozens of studies showing the many cardiovascular benefits of taking Garlic. This herb also reduces oxidation of fat and cholesterol which is the first step of atherosclerosis.

Blood Pressure: Garlic thins out the blood, reduces clotting and lowers blood pressure. It also acts as a regulator for the circulatory system, warming the whole body, reducing thrombosis and varicose veins.

Cold & Flu Symptoms: Garlic has antibacterial properties, making it a popular remedy for helping manage the symptoms of cold and flu. Garlic also enhances the body’s immunity & helps remove pathogens. (Pole, S.)

Lungs: Garlic is a strong decongestant, and the volatile oils help cleanse bronchioles. Also it helps clear wet and sticky mucus, encouraging the unrestricted flow of breath. (Pole, S.)

Fungal Skin Infections: Garlic can be made into a paste or infused into an oil and applied to the skin topically for fungal skin infections, ringworm, ear infections. (Pole, S.)

Carminative, Vermifuge, Vasodilator, Expectorant, Anticholesterol, Anti-Microbial, Antibacterial, Antifungal

Garlic Contraindications

• Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy (culinary use is fine) - may be too stimulating for the fetus (fine during lactation) (Pole, S.)

• Avoid with high pitta - hyper-acidity, high blood pressure from heat, ulcers. (Pole, S.)

• Caution taking with anti-clotting / anti-platelet medications as it can exacerbate anti-clotting properties. (Pole, S.) Garlic may potentiate the activity of anticoagulant medications such as aspirin. (Hoffman, D.)

• In high doses, Garlic may irritate the gut lining and cause nausea, burning of the mouth, diarrhea and vomiting. Contact dermatitis has also been noted as a risk when handling this herb for some people. (Hoffman, D.)