“Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.”
– Hippocrates (Father of Western Medicine)
Garlic is a popular cooking ingredient. It has been an important part of the Indian and Western cuisine for centuries.
Due to its strong aroma and delicious taste, Garlic is most commonly used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages.
However, the use of garlic is not limited to this alone. It has medicinal and healing properties as well.
Garlic is used to treat conditions such as cholesterol and high blood pressure. This article lists 7 amazing health benefits of garlic. Have a look.
#1: Garlic helps reduce High Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure (or hypertension) is a prominent health condition affecting nearly 1 billion people all over the world. Garlic is a wonderful herb that acts a natural anti-hypertensive agent.
Garlic contains Allicin, a compound that prevents the formation of too much of angiotensin II in the body. Angiotensin is a hormone responsible for narrowing the blood vessels that causes the blood pressure to rise.
Did You Know?
Garlic is well-known for its cholesterol-lowering abilities. However, studies show conflicting results and many contend that garlic is ineffective in regulating cholesterol levels
#2: Garlic aids Digestion
Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that uplifts the absorption of essential food nutrients and improves overall digestion.
It is also a natural source of inulin, a dietary fiber that helps simulate the growth of good bacteria in the gut.
#3: Garlic is a Natural Antibiotic
Garlic has been recognized as a powerful remedy against many forms of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Garlic contains Allicin and Ajoene, two antibacterial and anti-fungal compounds that work together to protect the body from various types of infections.
#4: Garlic purifies Blood
Garlic consists of Sulphur-rich compounds that simulates the liver to produce detoxification enzymes. These enzymes help filter out toxins from the blood.
#5: Garlic boosts Immunity
Garlic increases the the activity of white blood cells that protects the body against infections and keeps the immune system strong.
It contains many essential nutrients, including Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, and Manganese, required for a healthy immune system.
Garlic also contains antioxidants that prevents or delays damage to cells caused by free radicals.
Did You Know?
China is a leading producer and exporter of garlic, accounting nearly 70-80% share in the world trade.
#6: Garlic helps in Weight Loss
Garlic suppresses the appetite by increasing brain’s sensitivity to Leptin , a hunger hormone that tells the brain to stop eating when you are full.
Also, the sulfur-containing compound allicin in garlic activates brown fat that burns calories and keeps obesity at bay.
#7: Garlic improves Gut Health
Garlic works as an antibiotic by killing off hostile bacteria, and as a prebiotic by feeding the good bacteria in the gut. It also helps keep the colon clean by flushing out waste and toxins.
Also Read: 7 Epic Reasons to Eat Bananas.
Final Take
Despite of having so many health benefits, garlic may cause side effects or allergic reactions in some people. Eating too much of garlic in combination with blood thinning medication can also increase the risk of internal bleeding. Speak with your healthcare professional if you experience garlic sensitivity or have any concerns.
