Garlic is a superfood with numerous health benefits that have been utilized since ancient times for culinary and medicinal purposes. The unique aroma and taste of garlic make it one of the most popular spices used in kitchens around the world.

However, garlic is not just a flavor enhancer, it is also packed with powerful healing properties that can boost your overall health, improve immunity, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

In this article, we’ll explore 11 ways garlic can supercharge your health and help you live a happier, healthier life!

Garlic, Image: freepik.com

What is Garlic?

Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum, is a bulbous plant closely related to onions, shallots, and leeks. It has been cultivated for thousands of years and is valued for its culinary and medicinal properties. Garlic bulbs consist of multiple cloves covered in papery skin. It has a pungent aroma and a distinct flavor that adds depth to a wide range of dishes.

Garlic is rich in various bioactive compounds, including allicin, which is responsible for many of its health benefits. It is used in different cuisines worldwide and has been recognized for its potential positive effects on cardiovascular health, immune function, and more. Additionally, garlic has a long history of traditional use for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

History Of Garlic

The history of garlic dates back thousands of years, with its origins believed to be in central Asia. It has been cultivated and used by ancient civilizations throughout the world. Garlic holds a significant place in the folklore, mythology, and culinary traditions of various cultures.

Ancient Egyptians revered garlic for its medicinal and spiritual properties. It was placed in tombs to accompany the deceased to the afterlife. Garlic was also fed to slaves during the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza to enhance their strength and endurance.

In ancient Greece, garlic was consumed for its health benefits and was given to athletes participating in the Olympic Games. Greek physician Hippocrates, often referred to as the “Father of Medicine,” used garlic as a remedy for various ailments.

In medieval Europe, garlic was widely used as a natural remedy during times of plague and epidemics. It was believed to ward off evil spirits, vampires, and other supernatural creatures.

Garlic’s culinary importance grew over time. It became a staple ingredient in various cuisines, including Mediterranean, Asian, and Middle Eastern dishes. Its unique flavor and aroma add depth and complexity to countless recipes.

In modern times, scientific research has shed light on the numerous health benefits of garlic. Studies have shown its potential to lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, boost the immune system, and possess antimicrobial properties.

Today, garlic continues to be an integral part of global cuisine and is celebrated for its culinary versatility and potential health-promoting properties. It’s rich history and cultural significance have cemented garlic’s status as a beloved ingredient in kitchens worldwide.

Garlic Nutrition Facts

This nutrition information for one clove of raw garlic (3g) is provided by the USDA.

• Calories: 4.5

• Fat: 0g

• Sodium: 0.5mg

• Carbohydrates: 1g

• Fiber: 0.1g

• Sugars: 0g

• Protein: 0.2g

• Vitamin C: 0.9mg

• Zinc: 0.04mcg

Carbs

The calories in garlic come from carbohydrates, and because the serving size and calories are so low, the carbs in garlic are also very low. There is just one gram of carbs in a clove of garlic.

Fats

There is no fat in garlic.

Protein

Garlic provides no significant protein.

Vitamins and Minerals

Garlic contains several vitamins and minerals, although a single clove doesn’t provide much due to the small serving size. Each clove contains a small amount of vitamin C, zinc, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin K, and manganese, according to the USDA.

Calories

A 3-gram clove of garlic provides almost no calories. You’ll only add four calories to your total intake if you consume the whole clove.2 Because you are likely to eat so little of the food, garlic calories are not likely to make a noticeable difference in your daily food intake.

Garlic is low in calories, fat, sugar, and sodium, but since it is consumed in small quantities, it does not contribute to much of your nutritional intake overall. A single serving of garlic contains several vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, zinc, and calcium in small amounts.

Related: 10 Ways Broccoli Keeps Your Body Strong and Healthy!

Health Benefits Of Garlic

Garlic is a powerful herb that has a robust flavor and has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. Garlic has a compound called allicin, which is known to have several health benefits.

Here are 11 ways garlic can positively impact your well-being:

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health: Garlic is known to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It also prevents the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which can cause blockages in the arteries.

2. Reduces Inflammation: Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, preventing a variety of diseases.

3. Boosts Immune System: Garlic helps to strengthen the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and diseases.

4. Lowers Cancer Risk: Studies have shown that regularly consuming garlic can reduce the risk of certain cancers like colon and stomach cancer.

5. Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease: Garlic has been shown to have a positive effect on brain function and can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

6. Controls Blood Sugar levels: Garlic regulates blood sugar levels in the body, making it beneficial for people with diabetes.

7. Treats Respiratory Problems: Garlic has antiviral and antibacterial properties that make it an effective remedy for treating respiratory infections like colds and flu.

8. Reduces Oxidative Stress: Garlic has antioxidants that help to reduce oxidative stress in the body, preventing damage to the cells.

9. Aids Digestion: Garlic stimulates digestion by promoting the release of digestive enzymes, making it easier for the body to absorb nutrients from food.

10. Protects Liver: Garlic has been found to protect the liver from toxins and reduce the risk of liver diseases.

11. Promotes Healthy Skin: Garlic has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help to prevent and treat skin infections, acne, and other skin conditions.

Overall, garlic is a powerful herb that can benefit your health in numerous ways. Adding garlic to your diet can help to improve your overall well-being and protect you from a range of diseases and health conditions.

Also-Read: 10 Reasons to Add Corn to Your Diet for Better Health!

Garlic, Image: freepik.com

Garlic Recipes

Here are three easy garlic recipes for you:

1 – Garlic Butter Shrimp:

For this recipe, you will need:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 cloves of garlic, minced

• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Prepare?

• Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.

• Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

• Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

• Drizzle lemon juice over the shrimp and season with salt and pepper.

• Stir everything together and cook for another minute.

• Serve the garlic butter shrimp hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

2 – Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

For this recipe, you will need:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 6 cloves of roasted garlic

• 4 tablespoons of butter

• 1/2 cup of milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chopped chives for garnish

How to Prepare?

• Boil the potato chunks in salted water until tender. Drain and return them to the pot.

• Add the roasted garlic, butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the pot.

• Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with more milk if desired.

• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

• Serve the roasted garlic mashed potatoes hot, garnished with chopped chives.

3 – Garlic and Herb Roasted Chicken:

For this recipe, you will need:

• 1 whole chicken, about 3-4 pounds

• 6 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon wedges for serving

How to Prepare?

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

• In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.

• Pat the chicken dry and rub the garlic and herb mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.

• Place the chicken on a roasting pan or baking dish.

• Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

• Serve the garlic and herb-roasted chicken with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy these delicious garlic-infused recipes!

Read-More: 10 Amazing Health Benefits of Radish You Need to Know!

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you have a deep understanding of the benefits of Garlic there might be some questions that must be bothering you. In the below section, we will try and answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Garlic.

Summary

Garlic has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. From boosting the immune system to reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease, garlic has been shown to have numerous health benefits.

It is a natural and effective way to improve overall health and well-being. By incorporating garlic into your daily diet, you can reap the many benefits it has to offer.

So why not spice up your meals with this powerful herb and give your body a boost of health?