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Garlic is one of the most potent and most powerful members of the onion
family (Allium). Most of the health benefits derive from the more than 100
sulfur compounds it contains, especially allicin, which is responsible for
garlic's characteristic scent and flavor. Allicin is formed when the garlic
bulbs are crushed, chopped, or chewed. Among the promising health benefits
of garlic are that it may protect against stomach and colon cancer, slow the
build-up of artery-clogging plaque, prevent the formation of blood clots,
help lower blood pressure, reduce the chances of infection, improve nasal
congestion and sinusitis.
The health benefits of the allium compounds contained in garlic and other
vegetables in the onion family have been widely publicized. Garlic is
currently under study for its ability to reduce cancer risk, but there is
insufficient evidence to support a specific role for this vegetable in
cancer prevention.It also has the potential to interfere with anesthesia.
Garlic is promoted for use as a preventive measure against the formation of
cancer. Although several compounds in garlic may have anti-cancer
properties, the allyl sulfur compounds are said to play a major role. These
compounds are reported to prevent cancer by decreasing the activation of
carcinogens within the body, reducing the production of carcinogens, and
increasing the body's ability to repair damaged DNA. There have been claims
that garlic has certain immune boosting properties that may help the body
fight off diseases, such as colds or the flu, as well as reduce cancer cell
growth.
Garlic is considered to be Nature's very own antibiotic. Unlike most
antibiotics, Garlic will not deplete the body of flora, and is considered
to be the cure-all herb because of its effectiveness on the entire body.
Popularly used as a digestive aid , Garlic increases bile production while
enhancing digestion and reducing stomach gases. Garlic’s strong odor is
due mostly to a sulfide called allicin. For those who like to steer clear
from Garlic's odor, an encapsulated form a standardized "odorless" Garlic
can eliminate any unpleasant odor and taste. Garlic is a source of
selenium, which must be present in the body for proper immune response,
and which acts as an antioxidant in combination with vitamin E. Rich in
potassium, zinc, selenium, and Vitamins A & C, Garlic is commonly used to
fight infection, increase circulation and help prevent cardiovascular
disease. Garlic has been known to detoxify the body by cleansing the
kidneys and increasing urine flow. Furthermore, Garlic's healing
properties make it an ideal agent for fighting colds and flu, bacteria,
and fungi. Garlic has also been used for lowering cholesterol, reducing
high blood pressure, and treating respiratory problems such as bronchitis
and asthma.
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