Nature's Healers

Apart from its many culinary uses, garlic (Allium sativum) is equally versatile as a healing, medicinal herb. Rich in vitamins and minerals, it was used as food and medicine in ancient Egypt, Greece, and throughout the Roman Empire.

Healing properties

The many medicinal properties of garlic include: antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, anthelmintic (mild), diaphoretic, carminative, expectorant, pectoral, detoxicant, diuretic, oestrogenic, tonic, alterative, anticatarrhal, carminative, hypotensive, antispasmodic and vulnerary. It is a circulatory and immune system stimulant, liver and bile stimulant, cardiovascular tonic and blood cleanser. It reduces blood clotting, blood sugar levels, cholesterol and blood pressure.

Internal uses

Fresh crushed garlic is an excellent treatment for infections of the alimentary canal such as colitis. It kills pathogens but supports the natural bacterial flora of the digestive system.

When garlic enters the bloodstream it helps to cure bronchial infections and catarrh, and guards against recurrent colds and flu. Garlic combines well with Echinacea.

Taken daily, garlic controls fat deposits, protecting against hardened arteries, high blood pressure, cholesterol and angina.

It is important to note that garlic capsules, particularly the aroma-free capsules, are less effective than fresh, crushed garlic because essential active constituents are removed. Chewing fresh parsley is a good after-garlic breath freshener.

External uses

When garlic is crushed its antiseptic and antifungal properties are released. Used externally as well as internally, garlic can be used to treat ringworm infections and boils.

© Martha Magenta 2006.