Garlic

I. General Information

A. Scientific Name:

Allium sativum

B. Alternative Names:

Stinking Rose

C. Pronunciation:

gahr-lik

II. Sourcing and Origin

A. Source:

The bulb of a plant, made up of individual cloves.

B. Geographic Origin:

Central Asia (likely Iran and the Caucasus Mountains)

C. Method of Processing:

Usually used fresh, dried (powder, flakes), minced, roasted, pickled, or as an oil/extract.

III. Properties and Uses

A. Physical Properties:

A bulb composed of multiple cloves, encased in a thin, papery skin. It has a strong, pungent, and distinct aroma and flavor.

B. Chemical Composition:

Rich in sulfur compounds (like Allicin), volatile oils, manganese, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, selenium, and fiber.

C. Primary Uses:

Skincare Topical use (often diluted) for acne, minor cuts, and fungal infections; contains antioxidants.

Haircare Used in rinses or oils to potentially strengthen hair, stimulate growth, and treat dandruff.

Wellness Used traditionally and in supplements for cardiovascular health, immune support, and antimicrobial properties.

Culinary Used globally as a flavoring agent in savory dishes, sauces, rubs, soups, and marinades.

Household Natural pesticide/insect repellent (when combined with water or oil).

D. Key Benefits:

Supports cardiovascular health (may lower blood pressure and cholesterol), possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and offers antimicrobial (antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral) properties.

IV. Safety and Considerations

A. Potential Allergies:

Allergic contact dermatitis is possible; may cause gastric upset or heartburn in some individuals.

B. Best Practices for Use:

Crush or chop fresh garlic and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before cooking to maximize the formation of beneficial allicin.

C. Special Precautions:

Can interact with blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) due to its antiplatelet properties. Limit excessive intake before surgery. May cause strong body odor/bad breath.

V. Fun & Educational Facts

A. Historical Context:

Used by ancient Egyptians for medicinal purposes, by Greek and Roman soldiers for courage, and widely in traditional folk medicine across many cultures for thousands of years.

B. Did You Know?

The potent smell and many of the health benefits of garlic are due to Allicin, a sulfur compound released when the garlic clove is crushed, chopped, or chewed. Heat destroys allicin, which is why raw garlic is often considered more potent medicinally.

C. DIY Recipe Idea:

Garlic Bread, Pesto, Aioli, Roasted Garlic (Spread), Garlic Soup, Hummus, Stir-fries, and virtually any savory dish for flavor.