Herbs for Healthy Living: Guide to Commonly Used Herbs > Garlic

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Garlic

Garlic

 

Also known as:
Allium sativum

Uses:
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure

Description:
Garlic is one of the most commonly used health supplements in the world. It is said to be one of the world’s oldest medicines and is still one of the best and most popular herbal remedies. Remains of Garlic have been found in caves inhabited 10,000 years ago. A Sumerian clay tablet dating from 3,000 BC records the first Garlic prescription.

How it works:
It is now recognised that it is the ratio of the various types of cholesterol and fats in the blood which is more relevant than the totals measured. Whilst Garlic lowers the levels of triglycerides and low density lipoproteins (LDL), it increases the levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL). It has been suggested that an increase in HDL may enhance removal of cholesterol.

Garlic also has a mild action in lowering blood pressure and possesses antioxidant activity.

Additional advice:
People taking anticoagulant medication (aspirin or warfarin) should check with their Doctor before taking Garlic.