Garlic

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Allium sativum
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Bulb
Chemicals this herb contains:
Allicin
Allyl disulfides
Phytoncides
Unsaturated aldehydes
Volatile oils (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Kills larvae. Stops germs from reproducing. Decreases thickness and increases fluidity of mucus from lungs and bronchial tubes. Stimulates perspiration. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced. No effects are expected on the body, either good or bad, when herb is used in very small amounts to enhance the flavor of food.

Miscellaneous information:
Is used as a condiment. Avoid using garlic as a medicinal herb IN ANY AMOUNT with children! It is acceptable to use garlic as a flavoring in children's food.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats hypertension. Treats cramping abdominal pain in adults. Lowers high blood fats (hyperlipemia, hypercholesterolemia). Reddens skin by increasing blood flow to it.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Have any medical problem that your doctor is treating you for. Consult him or her first.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take small amounts for only a short time.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Comparative-toxicity rating not available from standard
references.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS