THE BEECHMONT CREST GUIDE TO MEDICINAL HERBS AND NUTRACEUTICALS
GARLIC
Garlic has a long history as a medicinal substance. Garlic bulbs contain an amino acid called allicin. Allicin is the source of garlic’s distinctive strong odor. Allicin also gives garlic its medicinal characteristics.
Benefits
Garlic interferes with the reproduction of bacteria. It there has antiseptic/antibacterial qualities.
Garlic reduces blood clotting. It is also claimed to reduce levels of “bad cholesterol” in the blood.
Side Effects
Garlic has no immediate harmful side effects, though it may interact adversely with some anticoagulant drugs.
Large amounts of garlic may cause stomach upset. In addition, the strong odor of garlic can remain present in the breath and body.
e male breast enlargement. It is also claimed to contribute to prostate cancer. However, these claims have not been proven.
The supplement has also been linked to kidney dysfunction.