Garlic
Are you aware that garlic is amongst the most well researched herbs in the world; and that many over 50s are taking garlic supplements.
Garlic is considered a ‘superfood’; it is rich in amino acids such as alanine and arginine, in vitamins such as vits C, B6 and B1, and in minerals such as calcium, selenium and manganese. Thanks to it’s sulfur content, garlic also offers antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Benefits:
Building immunity, preventing infections and viruses - from common cold, influenza, urinary tract infections... to parasites, yeast overgrowth, Candida
Heart health - prevents aneurism, excessive blood clotting; reduces plaque formation, high blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides levels
Promotes detoxification - eliminates toxic substances including lead and cadmium; helps liver to detoxify
Reduces cancer risk - inhibits the formation of carcinogenic Nitrosamines
Lowers oxidative stress - thanks to it’s anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects
In Chinese Medicine, garlic reduces Qi stagnation, promotes circulation, and helps reduce excessive animal protein toxicity. However, very importantly, as garlic is very pungent, it reduces mental concentration; and it is contraindicated with heat symptoms such as red face/eyes, thirst, dry mouth and night sweats. Excessive garlic consumption may damage the liver and the stomach, and for some it can cause heart burn.
To enjoy all the benefits, it is best not to cook garlic; A garlic dip recipe may be useful: 2 cups of cooked chickpeas, 3 cloves of garlic, 3TBS of extra virgin olive oil, 1TBS of lemon juice... all mixed together, a little veg stock, salt and pepper added to taste.. Yummm
