Herbal Supplements For A Healthier Life

Botanical & Identity

Botanical Name

Allium sativum

Common Names

Garlic, Ail, Knoflook

Plant Family

Amaryllidaceae

Part Used

Bulb (fresh, dried, or oil extract)

Taste Profile

Pungent, spicy, warming

Energetics

Warming, stimulating, dispersing
Garlic

Summary & Classification

Short Summary

Garlic is a potent antimicrobial and cardiovascular herb with a long history of use in preventing infections, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, and supporting immunity. It has strong antibacterial, antifungal, and blood-thinning properties.

Herb Actions

antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, expectorant, antifungal, immune support, hypocholesterolemic

Herbal Category

antimicrobial, immune support, cardiovascular health

Medicine System

ayurveda, tcm, western, traditional chinese medicine, european folk medicine

Active Ingredients

Allicin (formed when garlic is crushed),
,
Ajoene
,
Diallyl sulfide
,
S-allyl cysteine
,
Selenium
,
Flavonoids
.

Chemistry & Effectiveness

Active Ingredients

Mechanism of Action

Allicin exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial action. Sulphur compounds reduce platelet aggregation, improve lipid profiles, and support nitric oxide pathways for blood vessel dilation. Garlic also supports detoxification via the liver.

Modern Applications

Used in chronic infections, colds/flu, hypertension, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, fungal infections, and as a preventative antimicrobial agent.

Traditional Uses & Preparation

Traditional Uses

Used globally for centuries to prevent infections, enhance vitality, and preserve food. Traditionally eaten raw or infused in vinegar/oil for antibacterial purposes.

Preparation & Usage

Used raw, cooked, dried powder, capsules, tincture, or as oil maceration. Crushing activates allicin—let sit 5–10 minutes before use for maximum potency.

Recommended Dosage

Raw: 1–3 cloves/day; Capsules: 300–1000 mg allicin-stabilised extract/day; Tincture: 2–4 ml, 2–3x/day; Oil: apply topically for fungal infections or ear drops (diluted).

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

Avoid high doses before surgery (blood-thinning). Use caution in people with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal ulcers.

Drug Interactions

May potentiate anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin), antiplatelets, and blood pressure medications.

Pregnancy & Lactation

safe

Side Effects

Large doses may cause digestive upset, garlic breath, body odour, or mild skin irritation with topical use.

Scientific & Source Info

Scientific References

– Rahman, K. (2007). Garlic and cardiovascular disease: A critical review. – Amagase, H. et al. (2001). Allicin bioavailability and therapeutic potential.

Sourcing Notes

Organically grown, raw garlic is most potent. Aged garlic extract may be preferred for cardiovascular effects with reduced odour and GI side effects. Allicin content should be standardised for clinical efficacy.

Product Linkage

Used In Products

Parasite-Fix capsules

Parasite-Fix Support 120’s

R440.00