One of the most famous and widespread garden crops. The nutritional value no one doubts garlic, but as for the medicinal properties, numerous disputes arise on this subject, although Allium sativum is included in the list of pharmacopoeial plants. The cause of heated debate about medicinal use garlic was the fact that in medicine of many times and peoples they used different kinds this vegetable. As you know, types of garlic are divided into 4 groups: hydrophiles (inhabitants of humid subtropics), xerophiles (steppe species), mountain and northern. In each of the groups there are also many subspecies, so it is impossible to say exactly which type (subspecies) of garlic is being discussed in a particular recipe.

Chemical composition of garlic bulbs

Garlic bulbs contain a volatile essential oil, consisting of a mixture of various polysulfides (sulfur compounds). By the way, diallyl disulfide (the main component of essential oil) gives the vegetable a specific “garlic smell”. Garlic is also rich in a complex of macro- and microelements, contains vitamins, etc. The bactericidal properties of garlic are due to the formation of allicin from inactive alliin under the influence of the enzyme allinase (and with the access of oxygen). It has been experimentally established that allicin, even at a dilution of 1:125,000, inhibits the growth of bacteria.

According to Herodotus, during the construction of the Cheops pyramid, one of the expenditure items was the purchase of garlic, and the total costs amounted to about 40 tons of silver. This is not surprising, since garlic and radish were included in daily diet pyramid builders, to maintain their endurance and performance. Garlic bulbs contain more protein than potatoes and cabbage (white and cauliflower) combined. In terms of carbohydrate content, potatoes lag behind garlic. The calorie content of potatoes and garlic is 83 kcal and 106 kcal per 100 g, respectively. As for vitamins B and PP, garlic is ahead of even carrots in their content.

Side effects and contraindications

Garlic juice can sometimes cause specific dermatitis.

Garlic consumption should be limited during pregnancy.

It is not recommended to eat garlic while taking blood thinning medications (for example, during a course of treatment for thrombophlebitis, atherosclerosis, etc.). Otherwise case will happen increased effect of the drug, resulting in possible subcutaneous and internal hemorrhages.

It is not advisable to combine garlic with hypoglycemic drugs - the hypoglycemic effect is greatly enhanced.

Garlic is contraindicated for epilepsy, liver and kidney diseases in the acute stage.

Contraindications relate exclusively to medicinal use and consumption of garlic in its raw form - pickled garlic, although it loses many medicinal properties, as a food product is suitable for absolutely everyone, even those who cannot stand its smell.

Pharmacological effect of garlic on the body

Sulfur compounds contained in garlic phytoncides have a detrimental effect on numerous microbes, bacteria, viruses and fungi. The tradition of hanging bunches of garlic near doorways as a talisman has ancient roots, and now it has been scientifically proven that garlic is detrimental to pathogens such as dangerous diseases, such as typhus, diphtheria, cholera, tuberculosis, not to mention such “little things” as influenza and tonsillitis. Clinical trials have proven that garlic extract is effective in treating a large number of diseases bronchopulmonary system, in particular pulmonary tuberculosis and pneumonia. If during an epidemic of dysentery or ARVI you use garlic extract for the purpose of prevention, then the chances of getting sick are sharply reduced. By the way, when chronic cholecystitis garlic also has a hepatoprotective effect (protecting liver cells from destruction, which is often a consequence of exposure to Giardia toxins). The protective preventive properties of garlic have also been noted during intoxication with lead salts or nitrates.

An aqueous extract of garlic allows you to get rid of candida fungus (in dentistry for candidal stomatitis, 0.2% garlic extract reduces the population oral cavity pathogenic fungus to a safe level). Rinsing the mouth with a 5% water extract before and after tooth extraction (4 days each) reduces the risk of alveolitis. Freshly prepared extracts are effective in the treatment of pulpitis and periodontitis.

During the First World War, when there was an acute shortage of antiseptics at the front, treatment of purulent wounds was carried out with garlic juice, which saved soldiers from gangrene. Traditional healers do not neglect garlic extracts even now in the treatment of festering wounds, boils and trophic ulcers.

The mechanism of the anti-sclerotic effect of garlic is based on a decrease in the level of arachidonic acid, which is part of high-density cholesterol, in the blood, aorta and liver, but the level of linoleic acid (low-density cholesterol) significantly increases.

The anti-cancer properties of garlic preparations are under active study, because it is known for certain that among peoples who eat a lot of this vegetable, the percentage oncological diseases noticeably lower.

Anyone who picks garlic arrows probably knows about its adhesive properties. By the way, garlic juice can be used not only to seal abrasions and scratches, but it can also be used to glue glass to a watch case.

Garlic preparations

- Allilsat(Allilsatum). Alcohol extract. Prescribed drug for atherosclerosis, hypertension I-II stages, colitis and intestinal atony. Suppresses the processes of decay and fermentation in the intestines. The product is prescribed with milk, 10-15 drops twice a day.

- Garlic tincture(Tinct. Allii sat.). This remedy is prescribed in the same cases as other garlic preparations (10 - 20 drops).

Using garlic for treatment

- Garlic infusion(water extract). Pour chopped garlic over chilled boiled water in equal proportions. Infuse for about a day in a sealed container, then strain and squeeze. Used for compresses and washing wounds, rinsing the mouth and throat.

- Tincture. Pour chopped garlic with alcohol (70% strength) in equal proportions. Leave in a warm place for a week. The vessel must be tightly closed and the stopper filled with paraffin. After infusion, strain the liquid and pour into bottles. The use and dosage of homemade medicinal tincture is similar to the use of a pharmaceutical drug.

- Garlic syrup. Not everyone likes to take medicine from garlic because of its smell, this is especially true when treating children. For overly picky patients, it is advisable to prepare syrup. For 100 g of garlic – half a liter of water. Cook the garlic until softened, then add a vinegar solution equal to the amount of water left and continue cooking for another 10 - 15 minutes. Drain the liquid, add sugar and boil until syrup consistency.

- Garlic juice for inhalation. This remedy is used for diseases of the bronchopulmonary system. Freshly squeezed garlic juice is diluted with distilled water in a ratio of 1:3 (you can also use novocaine 0.25% solution). For inhalation, 2 ml of the drug is required. If you plan to carry out inhalations for bronchial asthma, then it is recommended to add 5 - 6 drops to the solution. Euspirana.

- Garlic drops. Instilled into the nose to prevent influenza. The drug is prepared from a mixture of tinctures: garlic, eucalyptus, mint and St. John's wort (10%) and a solution of novocaine (2.5% solution). Instill 3-5 drops.

- Ointment. Prepared from garlic juice and medical lanolin in equal proportions. For outdoor use.

- Garlic-lemon drink. The product is recommended to be used to prevent ARVI. To prepare you will need: 3 heads of garlic (80 g), 4 lemons and 2 liters of water. Grind the garlic and lemons in a meat grinder, add water and place in the refrigerator for three days (the mixture must be shaken periodically). After the specified time, strain the liquid and bottle it. Drink 50 ml three times a day before meals. Take the drink for 5 days with a break of 10 days.

From ancient manuscripts (1)

Garlic helps get rid of pinworm and roundworm infestations. Dr. Hufeland's antihelminthic method is as follows: the patient is given a decoction of garlic in milk on an empty stomach, and then, during the day, three times 15 g of a mixture of powdered tin with pink porridge (2). In the intervals between doses of this remedy, the patient is given 1 tbsp. castor oil. At the same time, petroleum oil is rubbed into the abdominal area.

Gourmet Recipes

Garlic soup. Cut a head of garlic (5 - 6 large cloves) into slices (5 - 8 mm thick), fry on olive oil(remove from heat once the slices are translucent). Boil 750 ml meat broth, after adding slices of garlic into it. When the broth boils, remove from heat and add whipped whites from 2 chicken eggs. Beat the yolks separately, adding 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar. Pour the beaten yolks into the soup as well. Add spices (salt, pepper, fresh herbs) shortly before serving the dish. Serve toasted rye croutons separately.

Pickled garlic. For 1 kg of garlic you will need 1 glass of water and diluted vinegar, 2 tbsp. sugar, 2 tsp. salt, 3 bay leaves, 5 peas each of black and allspice. Vinegar is diluted in this way: 2 tbsp. 9%, or 3 tbsp. Add 6% table vinegar with water to a full glass. Peeled garlic cloves are poured with cold marinade in an enamel or wooden container, a lid is placed with pressure and placed in the cellar. The product will be ready for use in a week.

Canned pickled garlic. For the marinade (per 1 liter of water): 300 ml of 6% vinegar, 50 g each of salt and sugar. Place a bay leaf on the bottom of pre-sterilized jars, load peeled garlic cloves and fill with marinade (t = 70 - 80 °C). Sealed jars are stored in the cellar.

Notes

1. Encyclopedia of Private Pharmacology. M. Weyberg, 1847.

2. Pink porridge (conserva rosarum). It is prepared from 358 g of rose petals, which are ground with 716 g of sugar into a paste.

Thanks to archaeological excavations, we learned that garlic was actively consumed by workers who built the Cheops pyramid in order to avoid illness during epidemics. Garlic is mentioned in Indian mythology and biblical traditions, in Greek papyri. Avicenna also said that “garlic cures all diseases,” he and many other healers considered it a medicine against old age. The recipe for eating garlic with milk, known to many today, belongs to Avicenna. He developed a whole system of garlic treatment.

In eastern countries, garlic was called dragon teeth and they came up with a beautiful fairy tale about it.

All the strength of the dragon living on earth lay in his teeth. But one day one brave man was able to defeat this dragon, and the people decided to give his teeth to the gods. They scattered the teeth all over the earth so that not a trace of them remained. But where the dragon's teeth fell, a magical plant appeared - garlic, possessing all the power of a dragon. And now all people were able to gain the extraordinary power of dragon teeth.

Everyone knows from films and books that garlic repels all evil spirits, it’s not for nothing that garlic “garlands” always hung in the houses of our great-grandfathers. At the same time, people actively used it for food, treated themselves and animals, protected their gardens from pests, and their homes from bedbugs and cockroaches. It is difficult to find another plant that has such wide applications.

What are the benefits of garlic for men? The beneficial properties of garlic for men have also been known since ancient times. Roman soldiers ate garlic because they believed it strengthened male strength and boosts morale. Gladiators ate a whole head of garlic before a fight in the hope that it would help them win. When plague, dysentery and cholera raged, the only salvation for people was also garlic. In China, garlic was recognized as a medicine after one doctor cured the emperor of a serious illness. And today in the Celestial Empire they treat the digestive, respiratory, and circulatory organs with garlic potions, and get rid of skin diseases, rheumatism and vitamin deficiencies.

Russian doctors used garlic to treat tuberculosis, kidney stones, gout, dropsy, cough and scurvy. Ancient sources dating back to 350 AD were found in India and Mesopotamia, which offer recipes for treating hemorrhoids and rheumatism, leprosy and epilepsy, and tuberculosis with garlic. Moreover, these manuscripts say that the recipes were copied from much more ancient sources.

Even people with “blue” blood did not shy away from using garlic in food and for treatment. For example, King Henry IV of France ( end XVI century) was baptized in water with the addition of garlic to protect the royal person from possible illness.

Composition and properties of garlic

The healing qualities of garlic are determined by the variety of ingredients it contains. useful substances(vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids). Some of them successfully neutralize infections, others lower blood sugar levels, others exhibit a pronounced antitumor effect, others normalize the amount of cholesterol, and others prevent blood clots. And there are also sixth and seventh ones, which also heal and somehow help a person.

Different parts of the plant have different composition and properties, but all are beneficial. So, we rarely eat garlic leaves, but they are no less useful than green onions. They contain a lot of vitamins B1, B3, PP, carotene (vitamin A), ascorbic acid(150 mg per 100 g, which is more than in an onion). Garlic cloves, in addition, contain polysaccharides, proteins and fats. About 27% of the mass is made up of polysaccharides and carbohydrates. The composition of polysaccharides can vary depending on the time of year: inulin and sucrose predominate in autumn garlic, and glucose and fructose in spring garlic. Our body easily absorbs these substances and they have high nutritional value.

Composition of garlic in%:

• protein – 6.7-13.3,
• fat – 0.03-0.08,
• fiber – 0.8,
• sugar – 3.2,
• starch – 2,
• organic acids – 0.1.

Garlic also contains a nicotinic acid, riboflavin and such a valuable substance as thiamine, which is not found in other vegetables. Garlic is not only a source of thiamine, but also helps our cells absorb it from the foods that contain it.

The plant contains many trace elements, without which our body is not able to function normally, because they take part in redox reactions. If the process of these reactions is disrupted, we begin to get sick. Many scientists believe that it is precisely the imbalance of various chemical elements in the body and becomes the root cause of disease. Interestingly, the leaves contain more microelements than the cloves (8.8% versus 3.7%).

• Germanium. It only contains garlic in a decent amount. This element strengthens vascular walls, makes them more elastic, protecting them from varicose veins.
• Selenium. This antioxidant protection the body from the “outrages” of free radicals. The element disinfects toxins in the liver and participates in the regeneration of skin, nails and hair cells.

• Iodine. Its importance for our body cannot be overestimated. This includes participation in thermoregulation, metabolism, maintaining water-electrolyte, protein and fat balance. That is why garlic is recommended for iodine deficiency conditions and thyroid diseases.
• Sulfur. Garlic contains more than 100 components containing sulfur in various compounds. They are important because of their antibacterial action. The presence of sulfides in the body helps it resist the action of pathogenic fungi and yeasts, dysentery and typhoid bacilli, and staphylococci. Considering the huge amount of carcinogens in modern food products, garlic can generally be considered irreplaceable. It contains salyl cysteine ​​and diallyl sulfide, which can kill cancer cells.

• Phytoncides. This is an excellent antibiotic that destroys many viruses dangerous to humans. Compare: carbolic acid kills the tuberculosis bacillus in 24 hours, sulfuric acid in half an hour, and garlic phytoncides in 5 minutes.
• Allicin and adonisite. These substances thin the blood, preventing the formation of blood clots.
• Essential oils. The main one is diallyl disulfide, which makes up almost 2% of the mass.

The healing properties of garlic

Thanks to its unique composition, garlic has many medicinal properties.

It dissolves blood clots and prevents new ones from forming. Garlic-based medicines have long been used to treat hypertension. What else is remarkable about garlic?

• Hypolipemic property. Garlic reduces the amount of fat in our blood and also reduces the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides. At the same time, garlic cloves increase the content of high-density lipoproteins in the blood, which means they help get rid of atheroxclerosis or reduce its manifestations. WITH increased content Fat in the blood is associated with many dangerous diseases - cancer, diabetes, coronary heart disease, thromboembolism. And simple garlic helps prevent their occurrence!
• Detoxifier. Garlic helps to disinfect poisons, especially in case of poisoning with heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic).
• Antitumor property. This has been confirmed by many clinical trials– Selenium and sulfur help fight carcinogens.
• Antacid property. This is the ability to bind free radicals, which is possessed by germanium, glutathione, selenium and zinc, found in garlic.
• Immunomodulatory property. Garlic is able to restore our immunity at the molecular level.

• General health. Garlic can be called food additive, created by nature itself, there are so many different useful substances in it.

Garlic Home Remedies

Fresh garlic retains more beneficial properties, especially as an antibiotic. As the cloves are stored, even in the refrigerator, the usefulness of garlic decreases. The decoctions retain all properties except antibiotic ones; they can be used for insomnia, thrombophlebitis, and atherosclerosis. When using garlic as an antibiotic, keep in mind that finely chopped garlic is twice as effective as a whole clove.

Doctors say that folk (or medicinal) remedies prepared on the basis of garlic are also much more effective for certain diseases than just eating garlic. The most convenient are alcohol tinctures that can be stored in the refrigerator for a long time. Medicines prepared in water or oil are usually stored for no more than a few days.

• Garlic decoction

It retains all minerals and trace elements, but volatile substances are destroyed. Drink a decoction for infections and inflammations. Prepare only before use. The product is considered quite strong and should be consumed no more than half a glass, taking a break of 4-5 hours between doses.

Preparation. Add a teaspoon of chopped garlic to two glasses of boiling water in an enamel pan, cook for 5 minutes, leave for half an hour. The decoction is suitable for use within 2 days.

• Infusion

Since the infusion is not boiled, its antibiotic properties are preserved. Therefore, infusions can be used in almost all cases.

Preparation. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the crushed head of garlic, wrap it warmly and leave until it cools completely. Store in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days. Purified water for infusion is needed; tap water is not advisable.

• Garlic tincture

This is a universal remedy loved by many healers. Garlic needs to be fresh, white and large, so depending on the time of year, winter or winter garlic is used. You need to choose vodka without any additional impurities; it is optimal to take medical alcohol. You need to infuse the garlic in a dark container or a glass container wrapped in paper, which must be tightly closed. It is better to warm up the container before preparing the tincture.

Garlic tincture has the amazing property of increasing its healing properties over time. It is best if it has stood for 2-3 years, special enzymes have had time to form in it, which have an antitumor effect and thin the blood no worse than aspirin.

Preparation. The head of garlic is crushed and poured with 0.5 liters of vodka or alcohol (diluted to 40 degrees). Cover tightly with a lid and leave in a dark place for 7-10 days. Every day the tincture should be shaken in the morning and evening. Take 10-15 drops, dissolving them in water, morning and evening.

• Tea for inhalation

2 cloves of garlic are poured into a saucepan with a glass of boiling water and kept on low heat for 20 minutes. Then add one teaspoon of lemon juice. You need to breathe this mixture, covered with a towel, until it cools completely for any illness. respiratory tract or with the flu.

You can only prepare it by hand; a juicer will not work. The juice can be stored and used for external use (applied to wounds and abscesses), and also added to inhalations if there is no time to prepare a special remedy.

Good for treating cough, laryngitis and other diseases of the throat and nose in children. Take 1 teaspoon every hour. If the medicine is prepared for an adult, the dose is increased to 1 tablespoon.

Preparation. Pour half a glass of chopped garlic into an enamel pan with fresh honey. Heat over low heat until the garlic is well mixed into the honey. You need to make sure that the honey syrup does not burn - stir it with a wooden spatula. While the syrup has not cooled, it is filtered and stored in the refrigerator for quite a long time.

• Garlic extract with apple cider vinegar

The extract is different high concentration substances, and its healing effect is much more noticeable. It turns out to be effective where other means fail. But it is very difficult to cook. We offer a recipe for preparing garlic extract, which can be prepared at home, although it will take a lot of time.

Preparation. Take three large heads of garlic, chop them, pour in 1 liter of apple cider vinegar and store covered for about 3 months. The resulting infusion is filtered and evaporated until it is reduced tenfold in volume. The result should be 100 g of extract. Take 1 tablespoon once a day.

Garlic can be harmful. This statement is true mainly for fresh garlic.

Many people are interested in whether garlic can be used during pregnancy? It is not recommended for expectant mothers, as well as people whose gastric acidity is much higher than normal. For stomach ulcers, raw garlic is strictly contraindicated. Also wondering, does garlic increase or decrease blood pressure? Hypertensive patients are not recommended to eat raw garlic in large quantities at once, but in the long term it lowers, or rather normalizes, blood pressure. There are people who have individual intolerance. For all these categories, it is better to use decoctions and infusions - the benefits of garlic for the human body in this case are also great, but there is no harm.

If you have not previously thought about the benefits of garlic, then do not underestimate the product. The vegetable gained popularity in ancient times due to unique qualities and special composition. Systematic intake of raw materials will provide the body with an optimal supply of beneficial microelements. Garlic resists the development of many diseases. Let's look at everything in order.

Composition of garlic

Garlic belongs to the herbaceous vegetables of the Bulbous family. The product has a rather specific aroma and pungent taste. Today, garlic is grown in almost every corner of the planet.

The vegetable has a low calorie content, per 100 grams. raw materials account for about 45 kcal. The product contains sufficient quantities of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, acids, essential oils, vitamins various groups and some connections.

Garlic is recognized as an effective product in official and folk medicine. The product has proven itself due to its variety of unique components. The presence of special enzymes helps the human body resist serious diseases.

1. During a crucial period expectant mother should carefully monitor the daily diet to exclude the occurrence of congenital defects in the baby. That is why it is necessary to create a menu that is as balanced and varied as possible.
2. Many girls mistakenly exclude teeth from their diet, but a small amount of garlic will benefit both mother and child. Main value bulbs lies in bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine properties.
3. Garlic contains the most valuable folic acid, which is necessary for the body of a pregnant girl. This vitamin allows the baby to develop in accordance with the term, forms the central nervous system and the skeleton of a child.
4. A special place in the bulbs of the hot vegetable is given to ascorbic acid, retinol, and tocopherol. Vitamin C is necessary to maintain the mother's immune system and protect against viruses. Vitamins A and E, respectively, enhance the effect of ascorbic acid and cleanse the body of toxins.
5. Potassium and magnesium eliminate the possibility of congenital diseases hearts. B vitamins cleanse blood channels from cholesterol plaques and prevent atherosclerosis in the mother. Iron increases hemoglobin, improves well-being, and prevents anemia.
6. Magnesium regulates the tone of the uterus, thereby preventing possible miscarriage or complications during pregnancy. Calcium accumulation thickens musculoskeletal system child.
7. Girls often suffer during pregnancy sharp jumps arterial and intracranial pressure. Even a small amount of fresh garlic added to food will prevent similar phenomena. The pressure in the arteries will normalize, and the headache will stop.
8. Pregnant people face sensitive issues, such as constipation. Garlic decoctions or gruel from fresh onions will improve peristalsis and intestinal microflora, fighting congestion.
9. After 6 months of gestation, varicose veins develop on the legs, swelling and heaviness appear. Due to the slowing of blood flow, there is a risk of thrombosis. Garlic thins the blood and increases its circulation.
10. Thanks to its diuretic properties, the seasoning removes excess water, which interferes with full activity. internal organs and systems. On this basis, heaviness in the legs is eliminated, swelling in the limbs and face disappears.

Garlic is indicated for use for the following diseases:

The diseases listed are not the entire list of what garlic can actually cure. Its use will also be useful externally in the form of lotions and compresses.

Garlic for toothache

Traditional healers are happy to use garlic to reduce discomfort from oral ailments. If you have a toothache, prepare fresh garlic puree (3-6 cloves), apply 2 layers of gauze and garlic pulp to the wrist opposite the tooth. Secure with a bandage and wait until the pain disappears.

Garlic for food fermentation in the esophagus

If you often suffer from indigestion, heaviness, constipation, rotting food and sludge in the body, garlic infusion will help you cope with such delicate problems. Take 0.3 kg. cleaned teeth, pour 0.5 liters. vodka and leave for 3 weeks. Take 18 drops 3 times a day, diluting the tincture with 250 ml. warm milk.

Important! In addition to cleansing and accelerating digestion, this remedy improves the composition of the blood and thins it, and prevents sclerosis and hypertension. And if you dilute garlic tincture water in equal proportions, you can rinse your mouth with it to strengthen the gums and treat stomatitis.

Garlic for cleansing blood channels

This remedy has a general strengthening effect on the vascular walls. They become strong and elastic. Tincture with garlic according to the recipe described below removes cholesterol plaques, so it is taken for varicose veins, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis and other ailments of this kind. To prepare the tincture, mix 0.1 kg. peeled teeth with 0.5 l. vodka and leave in the dark for a month. Strain, consume a teaspoon three times a day before meals.

Important! This remedy, in addition to its main indications for cleansing blood vessels, is useful for people with eye problems (prevention of cataracts, strengthening muscles, etc.). The tincture will be effective for the brain, and it also removes small formations from the kidneys.

The beneficial qualities of garlic allow it to be used for influenza and ARVI. For this purpose, garlic pulp should be mixed with warm honey, taking half a teaspoon of each component. The composition is taken before bedtime. If you have a runny nose, you need to wrap 2 peeled cloves in gauze and stick them into your nostrils one by one, waiting for a quarter of an hour. If you have a sore throat, you need to take steam baths like potato ones and breathe in garlic steam twice a day for 20 breaths.

Garlic contraindications

1. The vegetable may contain sulfates, which negatively affect intracranial pressure, raising it. Excessive use of the seasoning leads to headaches and decreased concentration.
2. If there are serious gastrointestinal pathologies, taking garlic should be agreed in advance with your doctor. Irritating properties sometimes have a negative effect on mucous membranes.
3. Garlic may cause an allergic reaction. It is contraindicated in pancreatitis, peptic ulcer, liver ailments.
4. External use should be avoided if you suffer from severe skin sensitivity.
5. Garlic has the ability to thin the blood, so if you have bleeding, you should limit your intake of the vegetable.
6. Epileptics should exercise extreme caution when taking garlic. It can cause an attack.

Garlic is famous for its antimicrobial and antipyretic properties, so it is most often used for colds. Burning teeth are often used for prevention various ailments, but if used ineptly they can cause harm. Be careful and study contraindications.

Video: medicinal properties of garlic

Garlic – two years herbaceous plant of the onion family, which is more than 5000 years old. This aromatic vegetable enjoyed unprecedented popularity both in ancient times and in modern world. Pythagoras, for example, called garlic the king of spices, and the ancient Romans and Greeks fed soldiers with it before military campaigns. Nowadays, garlic is widely used in cooking, folk medicine and home cosmetology.

What are the benefits of garlic?

The rich medicinal composition of garlic makes it a truly universal product. It is difficult to find an area in which garlic could not prove itself. It has a diuretic, wound-healing, analgesic, anthelmintic and diaphoretic effect.

For immunity and strengthening the body. Garlic is one of the most powerful natural antibiotics, which even the world-famous tetracycline cannot compare with. This spicy vegetable, which has a fairly wide spectrum of action, kills a huge number of bacteria, helps fight spring-autumn vitamin deficiencies and strengthens immune system. It is also useful for influenza, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, colds, and tuberculosis.

Garlic also promotes increased secretion of bile and eliminates the fermentation process in the intestines, which is why it should be added to all fatty and heavy dishes. Many nutritionists believe that this vegetable helps cleanse the body of harmful toxins and normalize metabolism; it is allowed to be consumed even during the most strict diet.

For those who suffer from chronic constipation, experts recommend eating at least three to four cloves of garlic every day. This will help solve the problem as soon as possible.

For cardio vascular system. People suffering from hypertension should pay special attention to hot garlic. It not only lowers blood pressure, but also thins the blood, prevents the formation of blood clots, and reduces blood levels bad cholesterol, and also has an anti-inflammatory effect. All this has the best effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of developing such serious illnesses, How multiple sclerosis, stroke and myocardial infarction. To achieve the greatest therapeutic effect Eat two to three heads of garlic per day.

Garlic against malignant tumors. Not long ago, the extract of this healthy spicy vegetable began to be added to many medical anti-cancer drugs. With their help, hundreds of people got rid of malignant tumors brain, mammary glands, intestines, prostate and stomach. Do not forget that you should never use such drugs without a doctor’s advice! Uncontrolled and prolonged self-medication can cause irritation of the colon and lead to suppression of intestinal microflora.

For the nervous system. Garlic strengthens the nervous system and is used as an aid in the treatment of various nervous disorders.

For the musculoskeletal system. Thanks to high content Garlic contains sulfur-containing substances and ensures the normal functioning of cartilage located in the joints. Many doctors strongly recommend its use to anyone who suffers from arthritis, gout, rheumatism or hepatosis.

Garlic against skin diseases. Garlic compresses and applications are successfully used to treat acne, pimples, sunburn, fungal diseases, eczema, ringworm, warts and allergic rashes. Grated garlic is added to ointments to treat old wounds and ulcers. And the juice of this vegetable is used to lubricate the bites of bees, mosquitoes and wasps.

For genitourinary system. In folk medicine, garlic is used to enhance urination. It helps remove stones from Bladder and kidneys, strengthens secretory function, activates the activity of the sex glands. Garlic contains substances that increase blood circulation and dilate blood vessels, this indicates its beneficial effect on the condition male potency. This plant is also recognized as one of the most powerful aphrodisiacs.

Garlic in cosmetology. Masks with garlic gruel help fight baldness and severe loss hair, strengthen nails and heal cracks on the hands and feet.

It is worth noting that greatest benefit garlic is brought fresh, boiled or pickled. The latter is an effective preventative against cancer. To get rid of strong odors and freshen your breath, chew a sprig of parsley, a slice of lemon, or cinnamon or cardamom seeds. You can also rinse your mouth with fresh milk.

Garlic contraindications

Garlic, however, like any other product, has a whole list of contraindications. Barriers to its use are:

• gastritis;
• stomach ulcer;
• kidney diseases (nephritis, nephrosis);
• problems in the liver and duodenum;
• haemorrhoids;
• hepatitis;
• epilepsy;
• skin infections;
• asthma;
• pregnancy and breastfeeding period.

IN large quantities garlic can lead to severe intoxication. The reason for this is toxic substances, which easily penetrate the body and cause severe headaches, absent-mindedness and inattention.

If you decide to use garlic for medicinal purposes, be sure to consult your doctor. Otherwise, you can only worsen your condition.

What vitamins are contained in garlic?

Few people know that the leaves and stem of garlic contain much more useful substances than the fruit itself. It is also interesting that the composition of the plant is influenced by the time of year. So, in the autumn the main part nutrients consist of sucrose (participates in the formation of glycogen) and insulin (a hormone that resists the development of diabetes), but in the spring they give way to fructose (natural sugar that does not cause hormonal surges) and glucose (the main source of energy).

In addition, garlic contains many other beneficial substances:

• ascorbic acid (vitamin C) – strengthens the immune system and ensures mental stability;
• vitamins B1 (thiamine) - participates in metabolism, regulates the functioning of the nervous and endocrine systems;
• vitamin B3 ( pantothenic acid) – improves intestinal motility, affects the functioning of the nervous system;
• vitamin B2 (riboflavin) – improves vision, is involved in hematopoiesis, growth and renewal of cells and tissues, has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, liver, mucous membranes, as well as on the functioning of the nervous system;
• vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) – stimulates amino acid metabolism, strengthens hair and accelerates its growth;
• vitamin B9 (folic acid) – the so-called “pregnancy vitamin”, is necessary for the development of the immune, nervous and circulatory systems;
• vitamin E (tocopherol) – prevents the formation of blood clots, improves cellular respiration, reduces the risk of scars and cicatrices, helps maintain youthful skin;
• vitamin D - regulates mineral metabolism, ensures the growth and development of bone tissue, promotes the absorption of calcium by the body;
• provitamin A (carotene) – protects cells from the effects of free radicals, helps resist cancer and preserve youth;
• vitamin PP (nicotinic acid) – expands small vessels, improves cellular respiration, participates in the metabolism of cholesterol and proteins, affects the functioning of the intestines, heart and stomach.

Garlic in folk medicine

Traditional medicine is rich in all kinds of recipes based on garlic. You can also check them out.

Garlic tincture

Reduces cholesterol, normalizes blood pressure, and is used to prevent stroke and heart attack.

Ingredients:

• cherry leaves – 7 pieces;
• black currant leaves - 7 pieces;
• horseradish leaves – 2 pieces;
• dill - a bunch;
• garlic (peeled) – 1 kg;
• salt – 80 grams;
• water (boiled) – 1 liter.

Cooking method:

1. Place cherry, currant, dill and horseradish leaves in the bottom of a clean three-liter jar.
2. Sprinkle garlic on top.
3. Pour salt warm water and let it dissolve.
4. Pour the resulting brine into a jar and cover it with a piece of gauze folded in half.
5. Place the jar in a warm place (15-20 degrees) for five days.

Take two tablespoons of the prepared tincture daily.

Tincture of honey and garlic

Effective for shortness of breath and angina.

Ingredients:

• honey – 1 kg;
• lemons – 10 pieces;
• garlic – 5 heads.

Cooking method:

1. Peel the garlic and pass through a garlic press.
2. Squeeze the juice out of the lemons.
3. Mix honey, garlic gruel and lemon juice, pour the mixture into a sealed container and place in a cool place for seven days.

Take four teaspoons daily. You need to take a minute break between taking each spoon.

Garlic and red wine tincture

Helps well with diabetes.

Ingredients:

• garlic – 100 grams;
• wine (dry red) – 4 glasses.

Cooking method:

1. Pass the peeled garlic through a garlic press.
2. Pour the resulting slurry with wine and place the mixture in a sealed container in a bright place for two weeks.
3. Shake the container with the tincture from time to time.

The prepared tincture is taken before meals, one tablespoon three times a day.

Cough medicine

Ingredients:

• sugar – 20 grams;
• water – 50 grams;
• garlic – 5 cloves.

Cooking method:

1. Finely chop the peeled garlic cloves.
2. Add sugar to them.
3. Fill everything with water and boil for five minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a sieve or cheesecloth.

Take the finished medicine one teaspoon at a time throughout the day.

Medicinal garlic oil

Strengthens the immune system, improves blood circulation, cleans blood vessels, kills bacteria and viruses.

Ingredients:

• garlic – 1 medium sized clove:
• olive or sunflower oil (unrefined) – 500 grams;
• lemon – 1 piece.

Cooking method:

1. Fill the resulting slurry with oil.
2. Place the mixture in a cool place for ten days.
3. Do not forget to shake the container with liquid every evening.

Take the finished medicine every morning, one teaspoon along with three drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Garlic rub for colds

Ingredients:

• goose fat – 3 tablespoons;
• garlic – 3-4 cloves;
• mustard (powder) – 1 tablespoon.

Cooking method:

1. Melt the goose fat a little in a water bath.
2. Pass the garlic through a garlic press.
3. Mix mustard powder, fat and garlic pulp.

Rub this ointment well over your chest and neck, and wrap yourself in a downy scarf or woolen scarf on top. In the morning, take a warm shower, this will help wash away any remaining oil.

Tincture for insomnia

Ingredients:

• garlic – 350 grams;
• lemons – 24 pieces.

Cooking method:

1. Pass the peeled garlic cloves through a garlic press.
2. Squeeze the juice out of the lemons.
3. Place the mixture in a jar, tie the neck with gauze and leave to infuse for a day.

Dilute one teaspoon of the medicine in half a glass of water and take it daily before bed.

Healing alcohol tincture

Lowers blood pressure, cleanses the stomach and circulatory system, helps with cerebral vascular spasms.

Ingredients:

• alcohol or vodka (50-60%) – 500 grams;
• garlic – 400 grams.

Cooking method:

1. Chop the peeled garlic as finely as possible.
2. Place it in a bottle and fill it with alcohol or vodka.
3. Place the container in a warm place for two weeks.
4. Shake it every day.

Take five drops per teaspoon of cold water before meals three times a day.

Calorie content of garlic

100 grams of raw product contains 149 kcal.

FAQ

Can nursing mothers eat garlic?

It is highly undesirable to consume this vegetable raw; it reduces lactation and worsens the taste of breast milk. But you can still add a little garlic during cooking.

Is it possible to eat garlic if you have gastritis?

For gastritis, a strict diet is prescribed, into which raw garlic does not fit in any way. This vegetable acts as a kind of irritant and stimulates the secretory activity of the stomach. All this will only worsen the patient's condition.

Is it possible to eat garlic if you have pancreatitis?

Can. Garlic soothes the pancreas and restores its impaired functions, which is what leads to the development of pancreatitis.

Is it possible to eat garlic if you are poisoned?

You can, but you need to do this as soon as you feel the first symptoms of intoxication. In this case, experts advise eating fried garlic or brewing it as tea. A decoction of three cloves of garlic and three slices of ginger root also helps a lot.

Garlic can be used to cure not only food poisoning, but also poisoning with lead, mercury, copper, aluminum and other heavy metals. It is also effective when hangover syndrome and alcohol intoxication.