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garlic

An Overview

Garlic can rightfully be called one of nature’s wonders. It can inhibit and kill bacteria, fungi, parasites, lower blood pressure, blood cholesterol and blood sugar, prevent blood clotting, protect the liver and contains anti-tumor properties. If that wasn’t impressive enough, garlic can also boost the immune system to fight off potential disease and maintain health. Garlic is a broad spectrum antibiotic, killing a wide variety of bacteria. Many pharmaceutical antibiotics kill only a narrow range of these germs. Dr. Tariq Abdullah, a prominent garlic researcher stated in the August 1987 issue of Prevention: “Garlic has the broadest spectrum of any antimicrobial substance that we know of — it is antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antiprotozoan and antiviral.”
Garlic has the ability to stimulate the lymphatic system which expedites the removal of waste from the body. It is considered an effective antioxidant and can help protect cells against free radical damage. In addition, it nourishes and supports the heart, stomach, circulation and the lungs. Current research suggests that garlic may help prevent some forms of cancer, heart disease, strokes and viral infections.
Garlic alone can provide us with over two hundred unusual chemicals that have the capability of protecting the human body from a wide variety of diseases. The sulfur containing compounds found in garlic afford the human body with protection by stimulating the production of certain beneficial enzymes. Most experts agree that garlic does not have to be eaten in its raw form to be effective. Cooked garlic or various aged extracts and oils can in some cases provide better protection against free radicals and infection than raw garlic.

 garlic

History Examples

In 1916 the British government asked for tons of garlic bulbs, offering one shilling a pound for as much as could be produced. A great quantity of it was used for the control of suppuration in wounds. The raw juice was expressed, diluted with water, and put on swabs of sterilized sphagnum moss which was applied to the wounds. Where this treatment was given, it has been proved that there has never been one single case of sepsis or septic results. Consequently, the lives of tens of thousands have been saved by this one miraculous herb.
In the olden days, garlic was employed as a specific for leprosy, psoriasis and several forms of exanthematous skin diseases. It was also believed to have the most beneficial result in smallpox applied to the soles of the feet in a linen cloth renewed daily.
Garlic was the principal ingredient in the famous Four Thieves Vinegar which was adapted so successfully at Marseilles for protection against the plague when it prevailed there in 1722.. This originated, it is said, with four thieves who confessed that, while protected by the liberal use of aromatic garlic vinegar during the plague, they plundered the dead bodies of the victims with complete safety.
It is stated that during an outbreak of infectious fever in certain poor quarters of London in the early 1800's, the French priests who constantly used garlic in all their dishes visited the very worst cases with impunity, while the English clergy caught the infection, and in many instances, fell victim to the disease.
 

Garlic's Properties

Antioxidant: Protects cells against damage by free radicals found in environmental pollutants including heavy metals. Garlic contains the highest level of the antioxidant selenium, which affords excellent cellular protection.
Anti-toxic: Can be considered a radiation antidote in that it stimulates cellular detoxification.
Anti-cancer: Blocks the ability of carcinogens to mutate healthy cells into malignant ones. In some cases, Garlic can even inhibit the early proliferation of cancerous cells.
Decongestant: Helps to rid the respiratory tract of mucus.
Artery Cleanser: Significantly lowers blood levels of triglycerides which have been associated with an increased risk of heart attack.
Anti-artherosclerotic: Promotes the regression of fatty deposits in blood vessels, a major cause of atherosclerosis, and can even help reverse arterial blockages caused by the collection of plaque.
Antibiotic: Works as an immune system stimulant which helps the body fight bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Enhancing immune defenses may also help the body rid itself of cancerous invaders.
Anticoagulant: Reduces the tendency of the blood to clot and helps to dissolve existing clots. Both of these actions are very significant in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Tonic: Garlic has a positive effect on the heart, stomach, lungs and spleen.
Anti-infection: Externally, garlic can be used as a drawing poultice.
Antiparasitic: Garlic has traditionally been used in enemas to rid the colon of intestinal parasites.
Blood Purifier: Helps to stimulate the lymphatic system to more efficiently get rid of waste material.
Glucose Control: Garlic has been found to be useful in controlling glucose tolerance and is beneficial for both hypo and hyperglycemia. Anyone with diabetes can benefit from garlic as well.
Swelling: Garlic suppositories have been used to shrink hemorrhoids.
Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory action of garlic makes it a valuable treatment for arthritis. Garlic reduces joint swelling and inflammation
Antihypertensive: Garlic has been recognized by the Japanese Food and Drug Administration as an official treatment for high blood pressure.
Garlic is a “wonder” food that is considered to be one of the most effective natural healing substances in the world.
 

How To Use It:

When eating raw garlic, please be aware that raw garlic can be very irritating to the stomach and could injure the digestive tract. Don't eat too much of it.
Fresh Rub: A fresh clove of garlic can be used directly on warts. When added to the diet, it works as a prophylactic against infection, helps to reduce high blood cholesterol and improves the cardiovascular system. Eating garlic regularly can also help to lower blood sugar levels.
Juice: Garlic juice can be taken for digestive disorders, infectious diseases and for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
Capsules: Powdered garlic can be taken in capsules. Garlic capsules are a convenient way to supplement the diet with garlic.
Maceration: Garlic cloves can be steeped in water overnight and taken as a treatment for intestinal parasites.
Aged Oil: Considered by some to be a superior form of garlic.
Storage: Fresh garlic can be stored in a cool, dry, dark place.
Garlic extracts and oils should be kept in dark bottles and can be refrigerated.
Garlic infused wine. Chop or crush garlic, cover with wine, and let it sit overnight.
Garlic vinegar. Same as above, but use vinegar instead of water.
Garlic honey. Same as above, but with honey. No added water is needed. This makes a great antibiotic cough syrup.
 
 

 

 


The material in this site is provided for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for consultation by a healthcare provider. Please consult your own physician or appropriate healthcare provider about the applicability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your own symptoms or medical conditions.