Garlic is a member of the onion-like plant group known as the Allium genus. According to Healthline, when the pods or garlic cloves are sliced or pressed, they produce allicin. After ingestion, allicin, a sulphur-based substance, makes its way through the digestive tract and begins working within the body, offering a range of positive physiological effects.
Cleveland Clinic says that garlic contains natural antimicrobial agents and powerful antioxidants that may help improve skin health by targeting the bacteria responsible for breakouts. Fresh garlic applied directly to skin blemishes can assist in improving their appearance and promoting clearer skin.
Healthline states that garlic contains minimal calories while offering a good supply of manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin C, making it a nutrient-dense addition to the diet, despite its small serving size. WebMD says, a single garlic clove or pod provides approximately 4 calories, 1 gm of carbohydrates and virtually no fat and no protein or dietary fibre either.
Healthline states that garlic may strengthen the body’s natural defenses and lower the risk of infections like colds. Garlic’s bioactive elements might have virus-fighting abilities, potentially blocking pathogens from entering or multiplying in the body’s cells.
Cleveland Clinic claims fresh garlic's natural antimicrobial qualities can reduce harmful microbes that cause food-borne illnesses, like as E coli and Salmonella.
Garlic may support weight regulation by contributing to reductions in body weight, fat levels, and abdominal size says Medical News Today. It also adds that women with polycystic ovary syndrome who took garlic supplements experienced decreases in their overall weight, body mass index (BMI), and waistline.
WebMD says garlic can lower the likelihood of clot formation in the bloodstream and this has cardiovascular benefits.
Garlic possesses strong antifungal properties that relieve athlete’s foot, offers Healthline. To combat the infection, one can either apply crushed garlic directly to the affected area or soak the feet in warm water infused with garlic, targeting the fungus responsible for the itching and discomfort.