The tempting aroma of garlic is so powerful that it has been used by many culture as a flavour enhancer in their culinary preparations. Garlic livens up any dish and treats some of the common ailments. Allicin, the sulphur-containing compound is activated when garlic is crushed, broken or sliced, exhibiting antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Each clove is a powerhouse of aroma as well as medicinal properties. A single clove of garlic has 33 sulphur compounds, 17 amino acids, antioxidants such as germanium and selenium, and multiple vitamins and minerals. These vital compounds together with allicin are beneficial in reducing blood pressure and preventing cardiovascular disease.
Garlic in Empty stomach
Benefits of eating raw garlic in empty stomach are that this condiment acts as a powerful antibiotic, controls blood pressure, enhances liver functions, and promotes digestion.
Health Benefits of garlic
- Reduces Blood Pressure & Lowers Cholesterol
Garlic lowers blood pressure and prevents the formation of blood clots much like aspirin or thrombolytic drugs do. Eating one-half to one clove of garlic daily reduces your cholesterol levels by 9%-12%. Numerous studies reveal garlic's ability to lower serum cholesterol and LDL while increasing HDL ("good" cholesterol) levels at the same time.
- Treats Cold and Flu
The pungent condiment is an excellent flu fighter, and the allicin in garlic has strong antiviral effects. Get relief from a stuffy nose or a bad case of the flu by chewing 2-3 cloves of raw garlic or sipping on hot garlic tea.
- Fights Infections
Archaeological evidence suggests that garlic has been used as an antibiotic to treat bacterial, fungal and parasitic infection for over 7000 years. Studies reveal that garlic extract soothes children suffering from tapeworm infestation. It's also effective in warding off cavity-causing bacteria.
- Detox the Body
A great detox food, garlic supports many liver enzymes and possesses 39 different anti-fungal, antibacterial, parasitic and viral agents. Eating garlic once a day is the best detox for reducing bad bugs. Garlic 2-3 times a day keeps the blood levels up.
- Prevents Cancer
Evidence suggests that increased intake of garlic is linked with reduced risk of cancers including stomach, colon, oesophagus, pancreas, and breast. A current study conducted by EPIC has shown that higher intakes of onion and garlic reduced the risk of intestinal cancer.
- Enhances Skin Radiance
The revitalizing garlic benefits for skin guard it against free radical damage and slows down ageing. Garlic paste applied to the skin clears out fungal infections and provides relief from skin disorders like eczema.
- Healthy Hair
Garlic is effective in preventing and reversing hair loss. The sulphur in garlic acts as a building block for keratin, which is a vital nutrient for hair growth. Applying crushed garlic extract on your scalp or massaging with garlic oil makes the hair stronger and flexible.
How Much Garlic Can You Eat In A Day?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a daily dose of 2 to 5 g of fresh garlic (approximately one clove), 0.4 to 1.2 g of dried garlic powder, 2 to 5 mg of garlic oil for adults.