Garlic is a spice and at the same time effective as a medicinal plant for various health problems. Garlic can particularly contribute to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
In the Middle Ages, garlic was used as a remedy for almost all health problems and was used, for example, for toothaches, skin rashes and menstrual problems. The trust in the effect was based exclusively on observations and experience.
Protects against cardiovascular diseases
In fact, the effectiveness of garlic for many complaints has now been proven by scientific studies. For example, garlic reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which also include strokes and heart attacks.
According to the results of a study, consuming garlic can be very effective in preventing high blood pressure, strokes and heart attacks.
Garlic is also already being used clinically to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose concentrations, and high blood pressure in particular is a very important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, the researchers report.
Protects against diabetes
The possible uses of garlic against chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes are illustrated in a current study.
This specifically analyzed a single active ingredient that occurs in aged garlic extract. This is S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC). The sulfur-containing substance has an extremely strong antioxidant effect and therefore effectively protects the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Beneficial for chronic illnesses
According to the researchers, the active ingredient is particularly beneficial for people who already suffer from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Oxidative stress plays a key role in the progression of these diseases, which is reduced by the antioxidant effect of garlic.
Inhibits inflammation
The researchers also found that S-allyl-L-cysteine has an anti-inflammatory effect, which can also help prevent and treat diseases associated with chronic inflammation. The researchers cite arthritis, asthma and Alzheimer’s disease as examples.
The team concludes that S-allyl-L-cysteine represents an intriguing substance with diverse pharmacological properties that can be processed into a dietary supplement with many health benefits in the future.
Garlic for prevention and treatment
Overall, garlic is a very effective remedy for preventing various diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, but garlic can also make a significant contribution to the treatment of a wide variety of complaints. (as)
