Garlic, a member of the onion family, has been used in cooking and medicine for thousands of years. It is known for its pungent smell and strong taste, but also for its numerous health benefits. Here are seven unique benefits of garlic for your health.

Benefit #1: Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Garlic has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the body. This makes it beneficial for those with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

A study conducted by the Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, showed that garlic extract can significantly reduce the levels of inflammatory markers in the body.

Benefit #2: Reduces Blood Pressure

Garlic can help to reduce blood pressure, making it beneficial for those with hypertension. A meta-analysis conducted by the Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Centre, St.

Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Canada, showed that garlic supplementation can lower blood pressure by an average of 7.7 mmHg systolic and 5.0 mmHg diastolic.

Benefit #3: Boosts Immune System

Garlic has been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. This helps to fight off infections and diseases.

A study conducted by the Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, showed that daily consumption of aged garlic extract for 90 days can increase the production of natural killer cells, which help to fight off infections and diseases.

Benefit #4: May Reduce Risk of Cancer

Garlic contains various compounds that may help to reduce the risk of certain cancers.

A study conducted by the Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, showed that garlic extract can inhibit the growth of various cancer cells, including breast and colon cancer cells.

Benefit #5: Improves Cholesterol Levels

Garlic can help to improve cholesterol levels, making it beneficial for those with high cholesterol.

A meta-analysis conducted by the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China, showed that garlic supplementation can significantly decrease total cholesterol levels and LDL cholesterol levels.

Benefit #6: Anti-Bacterial Properties

Garlic has been shown to have anti-bacterial properties, helping to fight off bacterial infections.

A study conducted by the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, showed that garlic extract can inhibit the growth of various bacteria.

Benefit #7: Improves Heart Health

Garlic can help to improve heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease.

A study conducted by the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, showed that regular consumption of garlic can help to reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing the levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.

Conclusion

Garlic has numerous health benefits, from reducing inflammation and blood pressure to improving immune system and heart health. Adding garlic to your diet can help to promote overall health and well-being.