Most of us are familiar with garlic as a culinary ingredient but fewer know that it has numerous nutritional and medicinal properties which provide significant health benefits. Following are some of the most important health benefits of garlic:

1. Cardiovascular Disease

• Hypertension: Consumption of garlic is associated with reduction in blood pressure in individuals with hypertension, a condition which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

• Cholesterol: Total cholesterol as well as LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels are decreased and there may be an increase in HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol.

• Atherosclerosis: Garlic inhibits the development of plaque that hardens the arteries which in turn decreases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

2. Supports Immune System

• Bacterial and Viral Infections: Garlic has been used as an antimicrobial agent and its effectiveness as an antibiotic is well acknowledged.

• Enhances Immunity: Daily intake of garlic strengthens body’s defenses against common viruses that cause cold and other diseases.

3. Acts as an Antioxidant

• Oxidative Stress: The antioxidants in garlic prevent the damage of free radicals on cells.

• Decreases Risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Garlic’s antioxidant activity helps prevent cell damage and aging which may decrease the risk of cognitive disorders.

4. Has Anti-inflammatory Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Organosulfur compounds and diallyl disulfide in garlic exhibits inhibitory effect against inflammation in the body.

5. Reduces Risk of Cancer

• Chemoprotective Effects: Bioactive compounds in garlic may decrease the risk of some types of cancer according to some studies, especially stomach and colorectal cancer.

6. Digestive Health

• Maintains Beneficial Bacteria in the Gut: Garlic stimulates growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria in the digestive tract.

• Improves Digestion: Garlic may improve the digestive process and prevent digestive disorders.

7.Aids in Detoxification

• Detoxification of Heavy Metals: Garlic protects against the damage of heavy metals (such as mercury) to organs through elevation of detoxification enzymes in liver.

8.Bones

• Estrogenemia in Women: Garlic increases estrogen levels in postmenopausal women which may decrease bone resorption (bone loss) in women.

9.Exercise Performance

• **Enhances Physical Work Capacity: Garlic was historically used to alleviate fatigue and decrease work capacity and recent studies show that it improves physical performance.

10.Skin and Hair

• Skin: Antimicrobial activity of garlic can be used to treat skin infections and ease acne.