Garlic is a go-to natural medicine for a lot of people worldwide. It’s no secret that this pungent bulb vegetable boasts a number of potent and beneficial effects against all sorts of bacterial and viral infections.

As such, it is a popular ingredient in different kinds of alternative medicines, from traditional Chinese medicine to the more ancient Ayurvedic medicine.

In the medical field, garlic has also been the subject of a large number of studies since the 1800s due to its instrumental role in preventing the spread of the bubonic plague across France in 1720.

Since then, scientists have studied garlic’s wide range of bioactive components, most of which are responsible for its famed health benefits.

Take a look at some of the science-backed health benefits of eating garlic below:

Regulates blood pressure

According to a 2014 review published on the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine, animal studies show that garlic extracts can help bring blood pressure back to normal levels. Clinical studies also provide evidence that garlic can help regulate blood pressure in more than 80 percent of people with high blood pressure.

Reduces cholesterol

Regular consumption of garlic has been found to reduce cholesterol and prevent cholesterol buildup along the arteries. If left untreated, this blockage can lead to a heightened risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious cardiovascular issues.

Supports heart health

Apart from its beneficial effects on cholesterol and blood pressure, garlic also helps relax stiff blood vessels and prevent blood clots. Both arterial stiffness and blood clots raise the risk of stroke, so it’s important to keep blood vessels elastic and relaxed.

Reduces the duration of colds

Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines recommend the use of garlic to aid respiration and clear the nasal tract of lingering bacteria and viruses. Experts believe that this cleansing effect goes hand in hand with garlic’s immune-boosting properties, thus reducing the duration and severity of the common cold and, in some cases, the flu.

Improves athletic performance

Healthcare professionals also recommend eating garlic to enhance athletic performance and reduce fatigue. A 2007 review published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research established that garlic has anti-fatigue effects that promote exercise endurance. That said, the mechanisms behind these effects are still being studied.

Supports bone development

Studies have found that garlic increases the female sex hormone estrogen, which can be quite beneficial for menopausal women. Estrogen is an essential component of bone health because it helps stimulate the production of bone cells. Therefore, eating more garlic can help decrease the risk of osteoporosis and arthritis.

Boosts brain functions

Unstable molecules called free radicals can cause inflammation in the brain, which can speed up age-related cognitive decline. Garlic contains a powerful antioxidant called S-allyl cysteine that suppresses inflammation and fights the first signs of age-related cognitive decline and brain deterioration.

Improves skin health

Garlic also has major benefits for skin health. Its strong antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties help kill pathogens that cause acne, athlete’s foot and other skin infections.

Rich in nutrients and bioactive plant compounds, garlic is a potent superfood. To maximize its health benefits, add it to soups and meat dishes, or toss a couple of cloves into the blender with some salad greens to make a potent detox smoothie.

Read more about garlic and other amazing superfoods at Superfoods.news.

Sources:

HealthGrades.com

NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov

PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov