Garlic Extract

Garlic extract is derived from the Allium sativum plant, which is closely related to onions, leeks, and chives. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Allicin: Garlic produces a compound called allicin, responsible for its characteristic smell and potential health benefits. Allicin has anti-inflammatory properties and acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells and tissues.
2. Uses & Effectiveness:
   • Possibly Effective for:
     • Endometriosis: Garlic powder tablets may improve pain in people with this condition.
     • Atherosclerosis (Hardening of Arteries): Garlic powder helps slow down artery hardening.
     • Diabetes: Garlic powder reduces pre-meal blood sugar levels.
     • High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia): Daily garlic intake may modestly reduce total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
     • High Blood Pressure: Garlic can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
     • Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Garlic powder improves liver health.
     • Periodontitis (Gum Infection): Aged garlic extract benefits gum health.
   • Possibly Ineffective for:
     • Stomach Cancer: Garlic consumption doesn’t seem to lower the risk of stomach cancer.
     • Helicobacter pylori Infection: No significant effect on this digestive tract infection

• Birth Control Pills: Garlic may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills.
• Isoniazid: An anti-tuberculosis medication.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
• Blood Thinners: Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners like warfarin and heparin.
• HIV Medications: Protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs).
• Others: Ginger, ginkgo biloba, and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

1. Bad Breath: Garlic can cause strong breath odor due to its sulfur compounds.
2. Digestive Issues: Some people may experience bloating, gas, or heartburn after consuming garlic.
3. Allergic Reactions: Rarely, garlic can cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory symptoms.
4. Bleeding Risk: Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you’re taking blood-thinning medications.
5. Skin Irritation: Applying raw garlic directly to the skin can cause irritation or burns.