Garlic
Botanical Name
Allium sativum
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Chinese Name
Da Suan
Origin and Habitat
Believed to originate in Central Asia. Now cultivated globally in temperate and subtropical regions.
Botanical Description
Bulb forming perennial plant with flat linear leaves and a segmented underground bulb composed of multiple cloves enclosed in a papery sheath.
Plant Parts Used
Bulb (cloves).
Key Constituents
Organosulfur compounds including alliin and allicin, S-allyl cysteine, ajoene, flavonoids, selenium containing compounds.
Mechanisms of Action
Supports cardiovascular function through modulation of lipid metabolism and vascular tone. Demonstrates antimicrobial, antiplatelet, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory activity.
Traditional Applications
Used across traditional medical systems for infections, digestive support, cardiovascular health, and respiratory conditions.
Evidence Informed Uses
Adjunct support for elevated cholesterol, mild hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and antimicrobial applications in integrative practice.
Preparations
Fresh crushed bulb, aged extracts, standardized capsules, oils, tinctures.
Safety and Considerations
May increase bleeding risk. Use caution with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, and antihypertensive medications. High intake may cause gastrointestinal irritation.
Clinical Relevance
One of the most extensively studied medicinal foods, bridging clinical herbal medicine and therapeutic nutrition.
