Garlic is a species of bulbous flowering plants in the Allium (onion) family and whose relatives include the onion,leek,shallot,Welsh onion,Chinese onion among others.It is popular in stew making because of its sweet aroma.However,apart from the nice appetizing smell it produces,garlic has other vital health benefits that are in most cases overlooked.
1.Eating raw garlic on an empty stomach helps prevent and cure many diseases since it acts as an antibiotic.According to studies,it is effective to eat it before breakfast because bacteria is exposed and cannot defend itself from succumbing to its power.
2.Drinking garlic water (garlic in hot water) helps prevent illness and support both your mental and digestive health.Garlic water may also reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer, promote weight loss and also protect the liver.
3.Garlic treats colds and coughs.This is the most common health benefit known by many as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.A study conducted for over 12 weeks proved that garlic reduced cold symptoms by 70%.
4.Garlic reduces blood pressure.Studies have found that garlic can significantly reduce blood pressure in people that have high blood pressure.The amount required to effectively do this is about four cloves per day.
5.Garlic improves heart health as it helps to lower the levels of low-density cholesterol.This type of cholesterol can lead to the blockage of blood vessels and is a major cause of coronary thrombosis.
6.Garlic treats antimicrobial resistant urinary tract infections.A study conducted by Researchers from Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences in India have revealed that garlic (allium sativum) can be used to combat antimicrobial resistant urinary tract infections (UTI).The vegetable contains allicin and other sulphur compounds, which are said to be the main antimicrobial factors.
7.Garlic helps treat ear infections.According to research,garlic has antibacterial properties that prevent the growth of bacteria in the ear canal and help treat ear infections.You can wrap a clove of garlic in tissue paper and put it in your ear if you have pain in your ears or an ear infection.
8.Garlic improves sex drive.Research suggests that garlic improves blood flow and may be beneficial for treating issues such as erectile dysfunction in men.It is also said to improve male fertility,enhance testosterone levels and increase sperm production.
9.Garlic improves bone health.A study on menopausal women showed that garlic significantly decreased a marker of estrogen deficiency and helped improve bone health in women.
10.Garlic fights tooth decay.Allicin that is produced by garlic helps prevent the bad bacteria that cause tooth decay from multiplying in the mouth.Several studies conclude that use of garlic extract could help combat gum disease by controlling the population of the bad bacteria and letting the good bacteria thrive.Gently chewing on a peeled clove of garlic with the affected tooth and letting it rest for a while releases allicin that kills the bacteria which is partially responsible for pain.
Finally,garlic smells good and tastes delicious!It is also easy to use in cooking.In order to add that extra sweet and noticable aroma to your delicacy, don’t forget to add a clove or two of chopped or crushed garlic according to your taste.
By Queen Edel
“Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” Hippocrates,ancient Greek physician (father of Western medicine)
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