Garlic, the drug that doesn’t just spice up your health—it’s Ayurveda’s way of saying, 'I got you!' With centuries of use as nature's multitasker, garlic helps boost immunity, improves digestion, and is the ultimate heart-healthy companion. Plus, it keeps vampires and bland dinners far away—talk about versatility! Known in Ayurveda for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas, this little powerhouse heats you from the inside out, perfect for when you need to kick a cold to the curb or just heat your wellness game. Side effects? You might smell like an Italian restaurant, but that’s just the scent of supernatural good health! Garlic’s Dual Personality: Myths, Mystique, and Medicinal Marvels While Garlic is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, this bulb has a storied past that has earned it a mix of reverence and suspicion across various cultures. Let’s peel back the layers of its mythological origins, strange tales, and surprising medicinal wonders! Garlic’s Mythical Mysteries: Tales from Across the Globe Indian Mythology: Amrit, Asuras, and Garlic’s Demonic Roots Garlic’s story in Indian mythology traces back to the legendary Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean). When the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean for Amrit—the divine nectar of immortality—things took a dramatic turn. As Lord Vishnu disguised himself as the beautiful Mohini to ensure only the Devas received the nectar, a sneaky Asura named Rahu slipped into line. Just as he took a sip, he was exposed and swiftly beheaded by Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra. Legend has it that garlic sprouted from the drops of Rahu's blood that fell to the earth—imbued with both the promise of immortality and the shame of deceit. This dual nature of garlic—a healer with a shadowy past—explains why it’s considered impure in certain Indian traditions. Yet, in Ayurveda, garlic (Lashuna) is a powerhouse of health benefits, aiding digestion immunity and balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. Talk about being both loved and loathed! Greek Mythology: From the Underworld with Love Garlic’s tale takes a darker twist in Greek mythology. When Hades kidnapped Persephone and whisked her to the underworld, garlic supposedly sprouted where her feet last touched the earth. With its strong aroma, garlic became a symbol of the underworld—forever caught between life and death. This made it a famous charm against ghosts and evil spirits. That explains why garlic is still considered a supernatural shield in many traditions! Roman Mythology: Fuel for the Warriors The Romans had a more macho take on garlic. It was associated with Mars, the god of war, and Roman soldiers would munch on garlic before heading into battle, believing it gave them strength and protected them from harm. A whiff of garlic on their breath wasn’t just for intimidation—it was their secret weapon for valour! Surprising Secrets: Garlic’s Hidden History and Fun Facts Garlic as Currency? Yep, Ancient Egyptians Paid in Cloves! Think Bitcoin is a new form of currency? Well, back in ancient Egypt, garlic was the real deal. Pyramid builders were paid in garlic, which was prized for its ability to provide strength and stamina. Garlic, the OG performance enhancer! Medicine from the Past: The Greek Doctor’s Favorite Prescription The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, the ‘father of medicine,’ was a big fan of garlic. He prescribed it for everything from respiratory conditions to digestive distress. Looks like garlic has been fighting for our well-being long before supplements hit the shelves! Ayurveda’s Take: Lashuna, The Multi-Talented Healer In Ayurveda, garlic is known as Rasona, meaning “lacking one taste”—because it has all the flavours except sour. It’s like the jack-of-all-trades of natural remedies, especially when treating Vata disorders, boosting heart health, and improving digestion. The Love Connection: Garlic as an Aphrodisiac Garlic might not sound like the most romantic herb, but many cultures believe it’s a vitality booster. Ayurvedic tradition even suggests using it in moderation to enhance sexual health. Just don’t forget the breath mints! Garlic’s Lesser-Known Powers: From Supernatural to Super Healthy A Spiritual Guardian: Garlic as a Cleansing Tool Have you ever wondered why garlic is often hung at doorways? It’s not just to ward off vampires! Across various cultures, garlic is believed to protect against negative energies and evil spirits. Who knew this kitchen staple could double as a spiritual bouncer? Garlic on the Battlefield: An Ancient Antibiotic Long before antibiotics, garlic served as a natural wound healer. During World Wars I and II, soldiers used garlic to treat wounds and prevent infections. Its antibacterial properties made it a battlefield staple—proof that garlic has been fighting germs for centuries. Keep Pests at Bay: Garlic’s Green Thumb Beyond its health perks, garlic is a farmer’s friend. It’s often used as a natural pesticide and animal repellent. Gardeners whip up garlic sprays to keep bugs and critters away without resorting to chemicals. Who knew garlic had a green side? Moonlit Magic: Garlic’s Lunar Lore With its crescent-shaped cloves, garlic has long been associated with the moon in European folklore. It was thought to possess mystical powers tied to lunar cycles. Next time you see garlic under a full moon, you’ll know there’s more to those cloves than meets the eye. Modern Science Meets Ancient Wisdom: Garlic’s Heart-Healthy Benefits Garlic may have a complicated past, but its modern-day reputation is solid gold regarding heart health. Numerous studies have shown that garlic can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. The secret? Keep peeling. Hallmarks of Garlic: Physical & Chemical Properties Rasa (Taste) Katu (Pungent): Garlic has a strong, spicy taste, primarily due to the presence of sulfur compounds, which contribute to its distinctive flavour. Guna (Qualities) 1. Laghu (Light): Garlic is considered light, making it easy to digest. 2. Snigdha (Oily): It has a slightly oily quality, which can enhance its therapeutic effects. 3. Ushna (Heating): Garlic generates heat in the body, which makes it beneficial for balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. Veerya (Potency) Ushna Veerya (Heating Potency): Garlic has a heating effect, stimulating digestion and circulation. Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect) Katu Vipaka (Pungent Post-Digestive Effect): After digestion, garlic retains its aromatic quality, which may aid in detoxification and enhance metabolic functions. Prabhava (Special Action) Medicinal Properties: Garlic is known for its various health benefits, including antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. It helps boost immunity, improve cardiovascular health, and support digestion. Phytoconstituents 1. Allicin is the primary bioactive compound in garlic, known for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. It is also responsible for the strong smell of garlic. 2. Sulfides: Diallyl sulfide and allyl methyl sulfide contribute to garlic's distinctive flavour and health benefits. 3. Vitamins: Garlic is rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties. 4. Minerals: It contains minerals like manganese, selenium, and calcium, essential for various bodily functions. 5. Flavonoids: Garlic contains flavonoids that have antioxidant effects, helping to protect cells from damage. 6. Amino Acids: It contains several amino acids, including arginine, which can improve blood flow and heart health. The versatility of this versatile drug 1. Raw Garlic: Consumed raw, it retains its potent health benefits, particularly its active compound, allicin. It's often recommended for boosting immunity and improving digestion. 2. Garlic Powder: Dehydrated and ground into a fine powder, garlic powder retains many medicinal properties and is used as a spice and a health supplement. 3. Garlic Oil: Extracted from garlic cloves, this oil is used topically for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, often for skin infections or muscle pain. 4. Garlic Paste: Made by crushing or grinding fresh garlic, this paste is commonly used in cooking and can also be applied to the skin for its healing properties. 5. Garlic Tablets or Capsules: Standardized supplements are available for those who prefer a concentrated dose without the strong taste of garlic. 6. Garlic Tincture: This is a concentrated herbal extract made by soaking garlic in alcohol or vinegar. It is used for its immune-boosting properties. 7. Garlic Infused Ghee: Garlic is sautéed in clarified butter (ghee), combining its benefits with ghee for enhanced digestion and nourishment. 8. Garlic Syrup: Made by boiling garlic with honey or sugar, this syrup is often used as a natural remedy for coughs and respiratory issues. 9. Fermented Garlic: Fermentation enhances garlic’s health benefits and reduces its pungency. Fermented garlic products are believed to have improved the bioavailability of nutrients. Exploring the Multifaceted Health Benefits of Garlic Cardiovascular Health Numerous studies have demonstrated that garlic can improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and preventing the progression of atherosclerosis. A systematic review found that garlic supplementation significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. Anticancer Properties Garlic is rich in sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, which have been shown to exhibit anticancer effects. Research suggests that garlic consumption is associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers, particularly gastrointestinal cancers. A meta-analysis indicated that higher garlic intake is linked to a lower risk of stomach and colorectal cancers. Immune System Support Garlic boosts the immune system, helping the body fight infections and diseases. A study found that garlic supplementation significantly reduced the severity and duration of cold symptoms in healthy adults. Anti-inflammatory Effects Garlic exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. Research has shown that garlic extract can reduce inflammatory markers and improve joint health. Metabolic Health Garlic may help manage diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Studies have suggested that garlic supplementation can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Digestive Health Garlic promotes digestive health by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and improving gut microbiota. Its prebiotic effects can enhance gut health and overall digestion. Summary In conclusion, garlic is not just a kitchen superstar; it’s the superhero of the spice rack! With its incredible health benefits—from boosting immunity to keeping vampires at bay—garlic has earned its reputation as a true wonder bulb. It’s like that friend who brings the snacks and the good vibes to every party: indispensable! So, whether adding it to your pasta, tossing it in a salad, or simply revelling in its intense aroma, remember that garlic does more than just season your food; it’s seasoning your health! Just be prepared to embrace its powerful fragrance—after all, if you’re not making your breath a little garlicky, are you even living? Citations 1. Role of Lashuna in Cardiovascular Health by Madhuri Achary -https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/1563 2. Amagase, H. ( 2006). Clarifying the real bioactive constituents of garlic. The Journal of Nutrition, 136(3), 716S-725S. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32478922/ , 3. Bo R., Ji X., Yang H., Liu M., Li J. The characterization of optimal selenized garlic polysaccharides and its immune and antioxidant activity in chickens. Int. J. Biol. Macromol. 2021;182:136–143. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.03.197 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9634153/ 4. Sanjay K Banerjee and subir K Maulik Effect of garlic on cardiovascular disorders : a review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC139960/#:~:text=%C2%A010.1186/1475%2D2891%2D1%2D4
