Health Benefits and Functions of Garlic

Garlic is known for its warm nature and pungent flavor, affecting the spleen, stomach, and lung meridians. It helps to warm the middle jiao (abdominal region), promote digestion, detoxify, and eliminate parasites. Garlic is commonly used to treat conditions such as abdominal pain caused by cold, dysentery, diarrhea, tuberculosis, whooping cough, colds, abscesses, skin infections, intestinal abscesses, fungal infections, insect bites, hookworm, pinworm, vaginal itching, malaria, sore throat, and edema.

Powerful Natural Antibiotic Properties

One of garlic's most notable features is its strong antibacterial properties. It contains sulfur-containing compounds that exhibit potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds can inhibit and even destroy a wide range of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other pathogens. According to scientific research, garlic is considered one of the most powerful natural antibiotics found in the plant kingdom.

Potential Cancer Prevention

In addition to its antimicrobial benefits, garlic has been linked to cancer prevention. Elements like germanium and selenium found in garlic may help suppress the growth of tumor and cancer cells. The U.S. National Cancer Institute has identified garlic as one of the top plants with potential anticancer properties. Regular consumption of garlic may contribute to reducing the risk of certain cancers, particularly those affecting the digestive system.

How to Consume Garlic for Maximum Benefits

To fully benefit from garlic's health properties, it should be consumed raw. Heat can significantly reduce its medicinal potency. For best results, crush garlic cloves and let them sit for 10–15 minutes before eating. This allows the allinase enzyme to activate and produce allicin, the compound responsible for garlic's therapeutic effects.

Important Considerations When Eating Garlic

While garlic offers many health benefits, it should not be consumed on an empty stomach due to its strong, irritating nature, which can cause stomach discomfort. Overconsumption should also be avoided, as garlic may interfere with the absorption of vitamin B and potentially irritate the eyes, leading to conditions like eyelid inflammation or conjunctivitis. It is generally recommended to consume one to three cloves per day, either once daily or every other day, for optimal health benefits without side effects.