Latin name: Allium sativum
Chinese name: da suan
What is Garlic?
Garlic is a plant known for everything from populating the dishes of Southern Europe to warding off vampires. Though grown all over the world, China is the largest producer of garlic, accounting for nearly 75% of the world’s crop. It is a pungent, spicy herb that has bulbs, leaves, stems, and flowers—all of which are edible. The cloves are specifically incorporated into a variety of ethnic cuisines, especially those of the Mediterranean region. Garlic is also a major part of Korean and Thai cuisines, and forms the basis of most Indian curries. Along with being used fresh, it is also served in a dry, powdered form as a seasoning. Because of its intense spiciness and taste, users of garlic are often afflicted with “garlic breath,” and herbs such as parsley are incorporated into garlic-based recipes to reduce its residual taste and strength.
What are the health benefits of Garlic?
Garlic is generally antibacterial in nature, and is used as an antiseptic and a remedy for infections. It is used for digestive disorders and as a treatment for intestinal worms. It is also used to prevent heart disease, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, regulate blood sugar levels, prevent diabetes-related conditions, treat allergies, reduce arthritis, counteract bone loss, and to treat ailments related to cancer. Externally, garlic is applied as an antiseptic for wounds and is used as an insect repellent. Its extract is also applied as a fungicide.
More information about the healing powers of Garlic can be found in the Supplements section.
Where can I find Garlic?
Garlic can be found fresh in supermarkets, health food stores, and outdoor markets in season. It can be found as a supplement online, in health food stores, herbal specialty shops, and in the offices of alternative medical practitioners.
You can find this herb combined with other herbs in the Traditions of Tao formula:
Feminine Desire, which helps increase a woman’s libido.
To unlock more health secrets from the Natural Health Dictionary, download your copy for Amazon Kindle.
