Allium sativum · Bulb
Garlic
Studied in peopleGarlic fed the builders of Egypt and is remembered among the foods Israel longed for in the wilderness. Few plants are so woven into the cooking of the whole world.
Traditionally used for
- Traditionally used across Mediterranean and Asian cultures to support general vitality
- Folk use during the cold season
- Historically used by laborers and soldiers as a strengthening food
What research says
NCCIH notes some evidence that garlic may slightly lower blood pressure and cholesterol in some people, though study results vary. It is not a substitute for care from your doctor.
How people use it
- Crushed raw and rested 10 minutes before cooking
- Roasted whole as a mild spread
- Infused in vinegar or honey (store safely; garlic-in-oil must be refrigerated)
Safety and interactions
- Can cause bad breath, heartburn and upset stomach
- May increase bleeding risk; tell your doctor before surgery
- Garlic supplements can interact with some medicines, including saquinavir (an HIV drug)
Always talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using garlic as a supplement, especially with prescription medicine, in pregnancy or before surgery.
Sources
- NIH NCCIH: Garlic
- Scripture: Numbers 11:5 (KJV)
- PubMed: current research on garlic blood pressure meta-analysis
Reviewed October 25, 2026. Evidence tier: Studied in people: Human studies summarized by NIH NCCIH suggest a possible benefit for a specific use. How we rank evidence.