Garlic is an ingredient used all over the world to create delicious cuisine. It provides a strong aroma and can really help to bring out the flavor in food. However, it turns out that garlic is much more than just a tasty herb, it actually holds healing power.

Its active compound, called allicin, makes it ideal for fighting inflammation, bacteria, fungus, and even cancer. In fact, research suggests that you should include at least 1/2 a clove in one of your meals every day. We'll take a moment to discuss the health benefits of garlic as well as how you can get the most out of it.

But first, let's take a quick look at the history of garlic and how long it's helped us.

A Brief History Of Garlic

Garlic has an extremely long history dating as far back as 5,000 years. The people of India used it as a curative, and Greek athletes used it for stamina and strength. In fact, at one point garlic was so valuable that it was used as a form of currency—the Egyptians often placed this herbal treasure in tombs, even in that of King Tut.

6 Benefits of Garlic

Here are six reasons why garlic is beneficial for both your body and your health:

1. Garlic Has Very Few Calories

Considering the amount of benefits found in garlic, you would generally expect a higher influx of calories when eating it. That is definitely not the case, however, as garlic provides wonderful returns on its dietary investment.

Since you can eat more without much worry of weight gain, it makes the following benefits all the more worthwhile.

2. Garlic Has Immune-Boosting Properties

If you would like to get rid of a sinus problem or prevent a cold during the cold season, then crush up a little garlic, lemon, and honey into a cup of tea. One UK study found that people who use garlic had 60% fewer colds than those who did not. The allicin in garlic makes it an excellent means of improving your natural defences, as it helps the body to fight off pathogens.

3. Garlic Is an Antioxidant

Are you someone who deals with constant skin issues such as acne or eczema? Next time you experience a problem, try a face mask composed of coconut oil and garlic.

Chronic inflammation can be caused by a number of factors, and can lead to unwanted weight gain, lowered metabolism, and even the metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and heart disease. The antioxidant properties of garlic make it an important addition to your diet, as it helps repair the oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

4. Garlic Fights Against Fungus and Parasites

Do you suffer from athlete's foot? Create a paste of garlic and coconut oil and apply it to the infected area. Garlic is a great way to prevent parasites and worms through regular application to affected areas.

5. Garlic Contains Lots of Nutrients

Are you searching for supplements? Look no further. Garlic contains vitamins C and B6, manganese, as well as selenium and fiber. It also offers carbs and is protein packed. Selenium while not as popular as, say, the prebiotic fiber, is an important part of maintaining good liver health.

6. Garlic Fights Cancer

The allicin in garlic also helps to fight cancer. It searches the body for its weakest spots and provides them with extra protection. Research suggests that those who regularly consume a diet including garlic lower their risks of esophageal cancer, colorectal cancer and stomach cancer by over 30%.

Getting the Most Out of Garlic

If you would like to get the most out of garlic, then it is best to eat it raw.

However, if you do decide to prepare it, first chop it, mince it, or crush it and allow it to sit for approximately 5-10 minutes. This will ensure that allicin forms. If you don't wait, then you may not experience the unique compound that makes it curative.

Each garlic bulb contains between 10 to 12 individual cloves. And remember, never cut your garlic up if you do not plan to cook it. It tends to lose its healing properties, especially when it comes to antioxidants which wane and fade without proper use.

When it comes to recipes, the sky is the limit. Add this herb to mashed cauliflower, zucchini dishes, vegetable stew, onion gravy, pasta dishes and so much more.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, when it comes to the benefits of garlic there isn't much that it cannot help you with.

From acne to cancer, this herb can make a huge difference in your health. The key is to make sure that you consume it as a regular part of your diet. Also, you should make sure that you cook it properly so that you can utilize its best offering—allicin.

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Sources

1. https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-health-benefits-of-garlic/

2. http://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/powerhouse-of-medicine-and-flavour-surprising-health-benefits-of-garlic-1200468