Garlic benefits - Natural health

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a bulbous perennial plant related to onions, chives, leeks and shallots. The bulb grows underground with long green shoots emerging above. Its bulb consist of small sections called cloves. The plants are hearty, pest and disease resistant. Two subspecies are hardneck and softneck. Hardneck garlic is grown in cooler climates, softneck in warmer climates. Garlic is grown worldwide, with China being the largest producer 

Garlic has been used for making culinary dishes and medicinally for centuries. It is rich in compounds : allicin, sulphur, zinc and calcium. It has a rich mineral source of selenium.

Garlic is a common flavoring in food. High organosulfur compounds in raw garlic are responsible for its strong, pungent and odor. Some scientist suggests its use as a food additive, can prevent food poisoning. Fresh garlic can kill bacteria: E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enteritidis.

Garlic benefits

Anti-viral, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-clotting, anti-inflammatory, improve iron metabolism, increase circulation, prevent weight gain, improve the immune system, reduce blood pressure, relieve heart, reduce LDL cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, reduce the risk of cancer, reduce atherosclerosis.

Garlic has been used for various ailments : common cold, fever, coughs, headache, nasal congestion, gout, asthma, bronchitis, stomach pain, rheumatism, stress, fatigue and more.

Shrimp and Garlic Spaghetti

Tips

- Learn how to grow garlic, organically.

- Store Garlic according to package directions. Store fresh garlic away from light and moisture.

- Garlic is generally safe for most people when taken orally. Know the proper dosage and do not exceed it. Use the package directions, your health care provider or pharmacist.

Garlic Benefits - (skin)

Garlic has large amounts of allicin antifungal, anti-aging, antioxidant and skin smoothing benefits. Allicin increases levels of antioxidants, combating free radicals that cause skin damage. Prevent premature aging skin. Combat fine lines and wrinkles. Improve firmness, tightness and overall appearance of the skin. The Allicin and sulfur in garlic increase the elasticity of the skin. Sulfur improves blood circulation, giving the skin a natural glow.

ATTENTION ! Do not apply a thick layer of garlic oil/gel for skin. Over exposure to garlic can damage the skin, burning and blistering it. Do not use if allergic to garlic.

Garlic Benefits - (hair)

Allicin in garlic increases blood circulation to the scalp. Reduce hair loss and stimulate new hair growth. Strengthen hair roots, remove toxins from the scalp and improve hair texture. Get rid of dandruff and prevent its re-ocurrence.

Garlic benefits - (Nails)

- Get rid of yellowing.

- Prevent cuticle infections.

- Get rid of the dull or brittle nails.

GARLIC CAUTIONS !

Garlic is not recommended in all situations. Consider the recommendations and warnings before use. Garlic has not been extensively evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safety, purity or efficacy. All potential risks of garlic may not be known. The FDA says that garlic oil/garlic as "GRAS" substances, generally recognized as safe for public use.

- Do not give garlic supplements to children. Consult a physician first.

- Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you have allergies to plants.

- Do not take garlic supplements during pregnancy or breast-feeding, since its effects on unborn or nursing infants are unknown.

- Raw garlic can have side effects : bad breath, burning sensation in mouth or stomach, heartburn, gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and body odor.

- You can increase or prolong bleeding risk. It May affect blood clotting and blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor before taking garlic, if you have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder or diabetes. Consult your doctor if on blood thinning or other medications.