by Brian Lamacraft

Created on: February 12, 2009   Last Updated: June 19, 2009

Garlic is one of the most commonly used herbs used in cooking and can be use to flavor many different dishes. This pungent herb also has many health benefits to our body.

Nutritional Content

Garlic is a good source of manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, selenium, calcium, phosphorus, thiamin, copper, and protein. One once or 28 grams, has around forty two calories.

Benefits to the Body

Garlic has a very pungent odor caused by sulfur compounds. Which are responsible for much of the herbs health benefits. Regular garlic consumption can help to lower blood pressure. This herb can help to stimulate the production of nitric oxide in the lining of blood vessels and relax them which can aid in the prevention of heart disease. Garlic also helps promote better blood flow in the body and eliminate free radicals which destroy cells in the body. Vitamin C, manganese, vitamin B6 and selenium present in this herb can also help with the elimination of free radicals. The selenium in the herb can also aid in the prevention of heart disease.

Garlic also contains anti-inflammatory compounds which can help to ease some conditions like arthritis. One of the sulfur compounds in garlic is very good at killing bacteria associated with colds, flu, and other viruses. It can also help to prevent more serious bacterial infections. Garlic may also be a potent cancer fighter. Eating a diet rich in garlic may help to lower the risks of many types of cancers. Studies have shown that garlic provides a significant lower risk for developing cancer in patients who eat garlic on a regular basis.

Garlic is a very potent antibiotic and is even beneficial against drug-resistant strains of bacteria. Cooking with garlic can help lower the carcinogens found in meat during grilling when the meat is exposed to higher temperatures.

Other Information

Garlic is one of the world's oldest cultivated plants and is native to Asia. Garlic is found in a bulb-like form with many cloves attached to the bulb. The skin of the cloves is removed prior to consumption. Garlic is cultivated in many areas of the world today.

Garlic should be purchased fresh for the most health benefits. It can be found in powders, salts, pastes and pickled. Fresh garlic will provide the most flavor enhancements to food. Store garlic away from sunlight and direct exposure to heat. Garlic that has begun to sprout will not be as fresh but can still be consumed.

To quickly remove the skin on this herb, place it on the counter and tap it with a knife or push down on it with your palm which will help to remove the skin from the clove. Cut up the garlic when ready to use and let it sit for several minutes. This will activate compounds in the herb which increases its health benefits.

Garlic can make many meals more flavorful. Add garlic to pasta, meat, salad, and sauces. Including garlic in your daily diet can help to promote better health for you and your family.

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