Garlic
Garlic is a spice known as “Rasona” in Ayurveda. It is a popular ingredient in cooking due to its strong smell and medicinal properties. It is rich in sulphur compounds that attribute to its various health benefits.
Garlic helps to manage weight by improving the metabolism of the body. It is good for heart health as it maintains a balance between good cholesterol and bad cholesterol levels due to its lipid lowering property. It prevents plaque formation and helps to widen the blood vessels thereby managing blood pressure due to its antioxidant property.
Garlic also helps to boost immunity and increases the ability of the body to fight against various infections. It manages cold and cough symptoms by increasing the release of mucus from the respiratory tract. It improves bone health which might be due to its high calcium content. Garlic might also help improve memory issues by preventing brain cell damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant property. It also helps to improve athletic performance by increasing oxygen flow to tissues and muscles.
According to Ayurveda, taking Garlic paste along with milk helps to improve sexual health due to its Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property. Drinking Garlic juice, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning, helps in weight loss. Swallowing a raw Garlic clove in the morning is an age old remedy for managing cholesterol levels.
Garlic helps to manage skin disorders like infections and acne due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Garlic oil can be applied to the skin for managing ringworm, warts as well as parasites. Applying hair pack made from Garlic paste and honey promotes hair growth and removes excessive dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
It should be noted that eating raw Garlic causes bad breath. So it is advisable to brush your teeth or eat some mint to get rid of the bad breath after consuming raw Garlic[2][3].
Garlic helps to manage weight by improving the metabolism of the body. It is good for heart health as it maintains a balance between good cholesterol and bad cholesterol levels due to its lipid lowering property. It prevents plaque formation and helps to widen the blood vessels thereby managing blood pressure due to its antioxidant property.
Garlic also helps to boost immunity and increases the ability of the body to fight against various infections. It manages cold and cough symptoms by increasing the release of mucus from the respiratory tract. It improves bone health which might be due to its high calcium content. Garlic might also help improve memory issues by preventing brain cell damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant property. It also helps to improve athletic performance by increasing oxygen flow to tissues and muscles.
According to Ayurveda, taking Garlic paste along with milk helps to improve sexual health due to its Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property. Drinking Garlic juice, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning, helps in weight loss. Swallowing a raw Garlic clove in the morning is an age old remedy for managing cholesterol levels.
Garlic helps to manage skin disorders like infections and acne due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Garlic oil can be applied to the skin for managing ringworm, warts as well as parasites. Applying hair pack made from Garlic paste and honey promotes hair growth and removes excessive dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
It should be noted that eating raw Garlic causes bad breath. So it is advisable to brush your teeth or eat some mint to get rid of the bad breath after consuming raw Garlic[2][3].
What are the synonyms of Garlic?
Allium sativum, Rasona, Yavanesta, Maharu, Lasun, Lasan, Lassun, Lahasun, Bulluci, Vellulli, Nelluthulli, Vellaipoondu, Vellulli, Tellapya, Tellagadda, Lahsan, Seer[1]
What is the source of Garlic?
Plant Based
Benefits of Garlic
Modern Science View
Garlic is beneficial in managing atherosclerosis. Allicin in Garlic has lipid lowering and antioxidant properties. Garlic inhibits the uptake of bad cholesterol and increases the level of good cholesterol in the body. Garlic inhibits deposition of bad cholesterol and prevents plaque formation in the blood vessels. Garlic reduces lipid peroxidation and damage of blood vessels[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
Garlic helps to manage atherosclerosis by reducing bad cholesterol. This is because high cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Including Garlic in the daily diet improves Agni and corrects impaired digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Garlic helps to manage diabetes by regulating blood glucose levels[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Regular intake of Garlic helps to correct impaired digestion and reduces Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3.Have it once or twice a day.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3.Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Garlic helps to manage high cholesterol by reducing the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver. It decreases the level of bad cholesterol and increases the level of good cholesterol[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels. Garlic helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins and helps to maintain healthy heart due to its Hrdya (cardiac tonic) nature.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boiled it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Garlic is used to manage high blood pressure. Garlic has anti-hypertensive and antioxidant properties. It helps to control lipid levels and prevents damage caused by free radicals[4][7][9].
Modern Science View
Garlic is beneficial for the management of prostate cancer. Garlic has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Garlic prevents the multiplication and growth of cancer cells[4][7].
Modern Science View
Garlic might be beneficial for reducing the risk of stomach cancer. It has antioxidant and anticancer activities. Garlic increases the level of natural antioxidants and prevents DNA damage[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama causing an imbalance in meda dhatu. Garlic is useful to control obesity as it helps improve metabolism and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It balances Meda dhatu and thus reduces obesity.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day to manage weight.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day to manage weight.
Modern Science View
Garlic might be beneficial for the management of colon cancer. It has antioxidant and anticancer activities. It increases the level of natural antioxidants and prevents DNA damage[4][7].
Ayurvedic View
Garlic helps to control cough associated with common cold when used in the daily diet or if taken with honey. A cough is a common ailment, which usually happens with cold. It is commonly known as Kapha disorder in Ayurveda. A cough is generally caused by the accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract. Eating Garlic helps to reduce Kapha due to its Kapha balancing property and also expel out accumulated mucus from the respiratory tract due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon Honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with 1 teaspoon Honey.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
How effective is Garlic?
Likely effective
Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries), Diabetes, High cholesterol, Hypertension (high blood pressure), Insect bite, Prostate cancer
Likely ineffective
Breast cancer, Lung cancer, Pre-eclampsia, Preventing mosquito bites
Insufficient evidence
Angina (heart-related chest pain), Athletic performance, Cancer of colon and rectum, Cancer of mouth, nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses, larynx, oesophagus, Common cold, Fibrocystic Breast Disease, Heart disease, Muscle building, Obesity, Stomach cancer
Precautions when using Garlic
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
1. Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding. So, it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking. Garlic with anticoagulant drugs[4].
2. Avoid taking Garlic if you have stomach problems[4].
2. Avoid taking Garlic if you have stomach problems[4].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Garlic in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Garlic supplements during breastfeeding[4].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
1. Garlic may interact with the absorption of birth control pills. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with birth control pills[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of immunosuppressant drugs. So, it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with immunosuppressant drugs[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of immunosuppressant drugs. So, it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with immunosuppressant drugs[4].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Garlic may lower blood sugar level. So, it is generally advised to monitor your blood sugar while taking Garlic with other anti-diabetic drugs[4].
Patients with heart disease
Important
Modern Science View
Garlic may lower the blood pressure level. So, it is generally advised to monitor your blood pressure while taking Garlic with other antihypertensive drugs[4].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
It is safe to take Garlic in food amounts. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Garlic supplements during pregnancy[4].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Bad breath
2. Burning sensation in the mouth or stomach
3. Heartburn
4. Gas
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Body odor
8. Diarrhea
9. Asthma[4].
2. Burning sensation in the mouth or stomach
3. Heartburn
4. Gas
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Body odor
8. Diarrhea
9. Asthma[4].
severe medicine interaction
Modern Science View
1. Garlic may interact with the absorption of anti-tubercular drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with anti-tubercular drugs[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of HIV/AIDS medications. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with HIV/AIDS drugs[4].
3. Garlic may interact with the absorption of antiviral drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with antiviral drugs[4].
2. Garlic may interact with the absorption of HIV/AIDS medications. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with HIV/AIDS drugs[4].
3. Garlic may interact with the absorption of antiviral drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Garlic with antiviral drugs[4].
FAQs about Garlic precautions
Recommended Dosage of Garlic
- Garlic Juice - 1-2 teaspoon once or twice day.
- Garlic Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Garlic Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice a day.
- Garlic Tablet - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
How to use Garlic
1. Raw Garlic
a. Take 2-3 cloves of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
2. Garlic Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Garlic juice.
b. Add same quantity of water to it.
c. Drink it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
3. Garlic Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
4. Garlic Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Garlic tablet.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
a. Take 2-3 cloves of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
2. Garlic Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoon of Garlic juice.
b. Add same quantity of water to it.
c. Drink it preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
3. Garlic Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Garlic.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
4. Garlic Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Garlic tablet.
b. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
Benefits of Garlic
Ayurvedic View
Ringworm or Dadru with itching and burning sensation is due to an imbalance of Kapha and Pitta dosha. Garlic helps to control fungal infections and itching associated with ringworm. This is due to its Kushtghna (useful in skin disease) and Kapha pacifying properties.
Tip:
1. Take ½-1 teaspoon Garlic juice.
2. Add coconut oil to it.
3. Apply to the affected area.
4. Repeat once or twice a day to control ringworm.
Tip:
1. Take ½-1 teaspoon Garlic juice.
2. Add coconut oil to it.
3. Apply to the affected area.
4. Repeat once or twice a day to control ringworm.
Modern Science View
Ulcers caused by a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
Modern Science View
Applying Garlic juice helps in the management of hair loss (alopecia areata)[4][8].
Ayurvedic View
Garlic helps to control hair fall and promote hair growth when applied on the scalp. This is because hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Garlic acts on hair fall by balancing Vata dosha. It also promotes hair growth and removes excessive dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 -1 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with honey in a bowl.
3. Apply this paste on your hair and scalp.
4. Leave it for about 30 minutes or more.
5. Rinse well using a shampoo.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 -1 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Mix with honey in a bowl.
3. Apply this paste on your hair and scalp.
4. Leave it for about 30 minutes or more.
5. Rinse well using a shampoo.
Modern Science View
Applying Garlic extract might be beneficial in managing corns. Garlic extract has fibrinolytic activity. It helps to break the fibrin tissue around the corn and detaches it from the main tissue[4][8].
Modern Science View
Applying Garlic might be beneficial in managing warts. Garlic prevents the multiplication of infected cells and prevents the recurrence of warts[4][8].
Ayurvedic View
Warts are called Charmakeela in Ayurveda. Charma means skin and Keela refers to growth or eruption. Warts are due to vitiation of Vata along with Kapha. This causes the development of hard nail structures called Charmakeela (warts). Garlic helps to control warts when applied on the affected area due to its Vata and Kapha balancing properties.
Tip
1. Peel one clove of Garlic and cut it into half.
2. Use the cut side of one portion of Garlic and gently rub on the wart.
3. Do this for 1-2 minute then use athletic tape to seal the remaining fresh Garlic on the wart.
4. Do this at night and remove the tape the next morning.
Tip
1. Peel one clove of Garlic and cut it into half.
2. Use the cut side of one portion of Garlic and gently rub on the wart.
3. Do this for 1-2 minute then use athletic tape to seal the remaining fresh Garlic on the wart.
4. Do this at night and remove the tape the next morning.
How effective is Garlic?
Likely effective
Athlete's foot (tinea pedis), Ringworm
Likely ineffective
Helicobacter pylori (H.Pylori) infection
Insufficient evidence
Corns, Fungal infections of mouth (Thrush), Fungal infections of vagina, Hair loss, Liver disease, Mouth ulcers, Warts
Precautions when using Garlic
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Garlic paste or oil should be used with rose water or coconut oil if someone has hypersensitive skin because Garlic has Tikshna (strong) and Ushna (hot) properties.
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
Severe skin irritation[4].
Recommended Dosage of Garlic
- Garlic Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
How to use Garlic
1. Raw Garlic
a. Take 1-2 raw Garlic cloves.
b. Crush them in a pestle and mortar to form a paste.
c. Add rose water to it.
d. Apply on the affected area.
e. Let it sit for 2-3 hours.
f. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
g. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day to get rid of boils and ulcers.
2. Garlic Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Garlic oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Massage evenly on the skin at bedtime.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get bacterial and fungal infections.
a. Take 1-2 raw Garlic cloves.
b. Crush them in a pestle and mortar to form a paste.
c. Add rose water to it.
d. Apply on the affected area.
e. Let it sit for 2-3 hours.
f. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
g. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day to get rid of boils and ulcers.
2. Garlic Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Garlic oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Massage evenly on the skin at bedtime.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get bacterial and fungal infections.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Eating Garlic on an empty stomach turns it into a potent antibiotic. It is considered best to eat it before breakfast as it protects the digestive system due to its antibacterial effect[5].
Ayurvedic View
If Garlic is eaten on an empty stomach it helps promote digestive fire. It also keeps your digestion better due to its Deepan (appetizer) properties.
Modern Science View
Eating raw Garlic is best to get its maximum health benefits. This is because raw Garlic releases allicin, the principle constituent with health benefits.
Ayurvedic View
Garlic can be taken raw for getting maximum results. But if you have digestive problems like hyperacidity it is better to eat after cooking. This is because Garlic has Tikshna (Strong) and Ushna (hot) potency.
Modern Science View
1. Take raw Garlic with any oil like olive oil, sunflower oil etc.
2. Chew some mouth freshner like fresh mint, cardamom etc, fennel after eating raw Garlic.
3. Drink a small glass of milk, green tea or coffee
2. Chew some mouth freshner like fresh mint, cardamom etc, fennel after eating raw Garlic.
3. Drink a small glass of milk, green tea or coffee
Modern Science View
The best way to take Garlic in the morning is to swallow 2-3 pods of Garlic with lukewarm water.
Modern Science View
For maximum health benefits of Garlic it is generally advised to take it in raw form. This is because raw Garlic releases allicin, the principle constituent with health benefits.
Modern Science View
1. Nourishes your skin
2. Cures common cold and allergies
3. Strengthens immunity
4. Antimicrobial effects
5. Lowers bad cholesterol
6. Detoxifies the body
2. Cures common cold and allergies
3. Strengthens immunity
4. Antimicrobial effects
5. Lowers bad cholesterol
6. Detoxifies the body
Modern Science View
Garlic soup can be made by the following recipe:
1. Take about ½ cup of Garlic cloves.
2. Peel and mince the Garlic cloves.
3. Heat butter in a pan.
4. Take ½ cup of chopped onion. Then, saute onion and garlic till they are tender and light brown on slow flame.
5. Add 1 tablespoon of plain flour to it and stir the contents for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add vegetable/chicken stock to it and bring to boil.
7. Add salt and pepper as per taste.
8. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
9. Pour soup in a serving bowl and garnish with grated cheese.
1. Take about ½ cup of Garlic cloves.
2. Peel and mince the Garlic cloves.
3. Heat butter in a pan.
4. Take ½ cup of chopped onion. Then, saute onion and garlic till they are tender and light brown on slow flame.
5. Add 1 tablespoon of plain flour to it and stir the contents for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add vegetable/chicken stock to it and bring to boil.
7. Add salt and pepper as per taste.
8. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
9. Pour soup in a serving bowl and garnish with grated cheese.
Modern Science View
Garlic powder can be made at home by the following method:
1. Take 1 cup Garlic pods(or as per requirement).
2. Separate the cloves from the Garlic pods, peel and slice them.
3. Place the peeled and sliced Garlic cloves under the sun for 4-5 days until they are completely dry.
4. Grind dried Garlic in a mixer, food processor or coffee grinder.
5. Garlic powder is ready.
6. Store Garlic powder in an airtight container and avoid exposure to moisture.
7. If lumps are formed in it take a plastic sheet or clean thin cotton cloth and spread Garlic powder over it in a very thin layer and keep it under the sun until moisture evaporates and grind it once to break the lumps.
8. You can also use a preheated oven at 150 degrees to dry Garlic instead of sunlight.
1. Take 1 cup Garlic pods(or as per requirement).
2. Separate the cloves from the Garlic pods, peel and slice them.
3. Place the peeled and sliced Garlic cloves under the sun for 4-5 days until they are completely dry.
4. Grind dried Garlic in a mixer, food processor or coffee grinder.
5. Garlic powder is ready.
6. Store Garlic powder in an airtight container and avoid exposure to moisture.
7. If lumps are formed in it take a plastic sheet or clean thin cotton cloth and spread Garlic powder over it in a very thin layer and keep it under the sun until moisture evaporates and grind it once to break the lumps.
8. You can also use a preheated oven at 150 degrees to dry Garlic instead of sunlight.
Modern Science View
Garlic can cause burning sensation or stomach upset if taken in a large amount or if you have a history of hyperacidity. This is because Garlic has Tikshna (strong) and Ushna (hot) nature.
Modern Science View
Garlic has strong antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities and protects the liver from various diseases[6].
Ayurvedic View
No, in fact Garlic helps to improve digestion and liver functioning by promoting healthy Agni (digestive fire). It helps in quick digestion of food due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It also clears the channels and activates enzymes that can flush out toxins from the liver.
Modern Science View
No, Garlic might reduce the risk of cancer. It contains a large number of potent bioactive compounds that have anticancer properties. Studies state that Garlic acts on the different stages of cancer cell metabolism such as mutagenesis, scavenging of free radicals, cell proliferation and differentiation[6].
Ayurvedic View
Sexual dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido i.e. having no inclination towards a sexual act. There can also be a low erection time or semen expelled soon after a sexual activity. This is also referred to as early discharge or premature ejaculation. Garlic helps to correct male sexual dysfunction and also improve stamina. This is due to its Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boil it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boil it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Garlic might be useful in managing Alzheimer’s disease due to its neuroprotective property. The antioxidants fight against free radicals and prevent cell damage. This might enhance learning and reduce the problem of dementia. Garlic is also useful in reducing the accumulation of a protein responsible for Alzheimer’s disease, thus manages memory loss problems[10][11].
Ayurvedic View
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological disorder which directly affects brain functioning. According to Ayurveda, Alzheimer’s disease occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha that might lead to certain symptoms like memory loss and sometimes convulsions. Garlic helps to reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease due to its Vata balancing property. Besides this, Garlic’s Balya (strength provider) and Medhya (brain tonic) properties help to provide strength to the nervous system and improve memory, thus providing relief from these symptoms.
Modern Science View
Yes, Garlic supplements might help improve athletic performance, which is mainly affected by blood thickness. A decrease in blood thickness results in increased oxygen and nutrient supply to working muscle tissues thereby increasing athletic performance.
Garlic promotes blood thinning (due to its fibrinolytic property) which results in increased glucose metabolism and oxygen supply to tissues. It also contains certain constituents which prevent physical fatigue during work out and enhances the physical strength[12][13].
Garlic promotes blood thinning (due to its fibrinolytic property) which results in increased glucose metabolism and oxygen supply to tissues. It also contains certain constituents which prevent physical fatigue during work out and enhances the physical strength[12][13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Garlic might help improve bone health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Certain constituents present in Garlic inhibit the activity of an inflammatory protein that reduces pain and inflammation in the joints. Garlic also contains calcium which acts as a building block and provides strong and healthy bones[14][15][27].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Garlic might help improve bone health due to its Balya (strength provider) property. Bones sometimes become weak due to malnutrition which might be because of poor digestion. Garlic also helps to improve digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) property. This helps provide strength to the bones and improves their efficiency.
Tips
1. Take 1-2 Garlic tablet.
2. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
Tips
1. Take 1-2 Garlic tablet.
2. Swallow it with water twice a day preferably after meals.
Modern Science View
Yes, Garlic might improve the immune system due to the presence of certain constituents, such as alliin, which help fight against infection-causing agents. These constituents stimulate the response of white blood cells when attacked by viruses thereby boosting the immune system[16][17].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Garlic might help boost up your immunity due to its Rasayana (rejuvenation) property. This helps to fight against any external bacterial or viral attack on the body and maintains good health.
Tips
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boil it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Tips
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Garlic paste.
2. Boil it with milk.
3. Have it once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
Yes, Garlic helps in weight loss as it has anti-obesity property. It lowers the total cholesterol and increases the good cholesterol levels. It also improves the metabolism of the body and helps in fat burning. The high fibre content of Garlic enhances faecal mass and frequency of faecal excretion thus helping in effective weight loss[23-25].
Ayurvedic View
Weight gain is a condition which occurs due to weak or poor digestion which lead to the formation and accumulation of excessive fat or toxins in the form of Ama (toxin remains in the body due to indigestion). Garlic helps manage weight gain due to its Ushna (hot) nature which enhances the digestive fire (Agni) and improves digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) properties. This prevents the formation of toxins, thus managing the weight of an individual.
Modern Science View
Yes, we can eat raw Garlic cloves. The minimum intake of fresh Garlic is 1-2 cloves per day. It is recommended to crush or chop the fresh Garlic cloves which helps maintain the levels of cholesterol. It also stimulates the release of alliinase enzyme help improves the immune system[20][22].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, raw Garlic clove can be consumed to lower down the high cholesterol level. Cholesterol is a condition which occurs due to weak or poor digestion, where toxins get accumulated in the form of Ama in the blood vessels. Garlic helps to manage the levels of high cholesterol due to its Ushna (hot) and Deepan (appetizer) properties. These properties help to enhance your digestive fire and improve digestion, thus preventing the accumulation of toxins.
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, an aggravated Vata dosha makes the nervous system sensitive which leads to Anidra (difficulty to sleep). The aroma of Garlic helps people with disturbed sleep due to its strong calming effects. This is because of its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
Garlic oil has an antifungal property which prevents the growth of fungi on the skin. It also helps to manage ringworm, parasites and warts. These infections might be controlled by applying Garlic oil as it stimulates the defence system of the body[16][18].
Ayurvedic View
Garlic can be beneficial in managing certain skin problems like dryness, fungal infection or ringworm due to its Snigdha (oily) property that help reduce these symptoms. Besides this, Garlic is also beneficial to provide a natural skin complexion due to its Varnya (improves complexion ) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Garlic is considered to be beneficial for the skin due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties. It prevents the growth of bacteria and protects skin from getting attacked by infectious agents. But It should be taken care that fresh or dried Garlic application on the stinging sensation might cause blistering. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor before using Garlic on the skin[26][8].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Garlic is beneficial for the skin due to its Varnya (improves complexion ) and Rasayana (rejuvenation) properties. These properties help to improve natural complexion, rejuvenates the skin and provide healthy glowing skin.
Modern Science View
Yes, Garlic oil can be used for earache as it inhibits the action of certain infection-causing agents and provides protection against certain problems related to the ear. This is especially helpful in the case of children.
Tips to use Garlic oil for earache:
1. Take 2-4 drops of Garlic oil on a piece of cotton.
2. Place this cotton swab in the ear to get relief from pain in the ear[19][20].
Tips to use Garlic oil for earache:
1. Take 2-4 drops of Garlic oil on a piece of cotton.
2. Place this cotton swab in the ear to get relief from pain in the ear[19][20].
Ayurvedic View
Ear pain caused due to an imbalanced Vata dosha might be managed by Garlic due to its Vata balancing and Ushna (hot) properties. This helps to reduce the pain and provide warmth to the affected area, thus providing relief from earache.
Modern Science View
Yes, Garlic juice prevents acne due to its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Certain constituents (alliin) present in Garlic prevents the growth of bacteria that is responsible for causing acne. Garlic also reduces inflammation and improves blood circulation[21][22].
Ayurvedic View
Acne is a condition which generally occurs due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha. Garlic might help manage acne due to its Kapha balancing property. Besides this, the Rasayana (rejuvenation) property of Garlic also helps to rejuvenate the skin, thus providing relief from acne.
Tips
Use Garlic oil or paste along with coconut oil for hypersensitive skin.
Tips
Use Garlic oil or paste along with coconut oil for hypersensitive skin.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Alam KMD, Hoq MO, Uddin MS.Medicinal plant Allium sativum = A Review.Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies 2016; 4(6): 72-79.
- Bhandari PR.Garlic (Allium sativum L.): A review of potential therapeutic applications.International Journal of Green Pharmacy.2012;6:118-29.
- WebMD.Garlic: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Adetumbi MA, Lau BH.Allium sativum (Garlic)--a natural antibiotic.Med Hypotheses. 1983;12(3):227-37.
- Bayan L, Koulivand PH,Gorji A.Garlic: a review of potential therapeutic effects.Avicenna J Phytomed. 2014;4(1): 1–14.
- Rana SV, Pal R, Vaiphei K, et al. Garlic in health and disease. Nutrition Research Reviews.2011;24:60–71.
- Pazyar N, Feily A. Garlic in dermatology. Dermatology Reports.2011;3(e4):5-7.
- Ried K, Fakler P. Potential of garlic (Allium sativum) in lowering high blood pressure: mechanisms of action and clinical relevance. Integrated Blood Pressure Control.2014;7:71–82.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.