When it comes to colds and flu, garlic’s reputation as a natural remedy is particularly noteworthy. But does garlic really have the power to stop a cold in its tracks? Can garlic be used for colds, to boost the immune system, prevention of colds, boost immunity during the colder months? In this article, we’ll explore how garlic can boost your immune system, prevent colds, and provide relief from cold symptoms.
Garlic has been celebrated for centuries, not only for its culinary uses, but also for its impressive medicinal properties.
Here are a few ways that garlic may help you end those cold and flu symptoms, help prevent, and boost your immunity.
Raw Garlic: Is Garlic Good For You And Can It Boost Immunity?
One way to stop a cold is by using garlic. It has wonderful health benefits, with the power to kill off viruses and bacteria that cause colds.
So the benefit of garlic can be effective in stopping them.
One method is to put a clove in your nose. You can also eat it to prevent colds.
How Garlic Boosts The Immune System
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a staple in many kitchens worldwide, but its benefits extend far beyond its ability to enhance the flavor of your favorite dishes.
One of garlic’s most significant health benefits is its ability to boost the immune system.
Garlic contains compounds like allicin, ajoene, and sulfur, which are known to have powerful immune-boosting properties.
The Role Of Allicin In Immune Support
Allicin, the primary active compound in garlic, is formed when garlic is crushed or chopped.
This compound is responsible for most of garlic’s health benefits, including its immune-boosting properties.
Allicin has been shown to enhance the immune response by stimulating the activity of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections.
Can Garlic Prevent And Treat Colds?
Well, can garlic heal when you have a cold or flu? Suffering from the cold and flu can make you feel helpless. Since even the smallest task seems exhausting.
It is common belief that there is no real “cure” for colds and flu. You simply have to let it run its course.
Garlic For Cold Prevention
Many people swear by the use of garlic for cold prevention. The sulfur-containing compounds in garlic help the body produce more white blood cells, which can fight off viruses more effectively.
Studies have shown that people who consume garlic regularly are less likely to catch a cold, and if they do, their symptoms are typically less severe and shorter in duration.
In one study, 146 participants were given either a garlic supplement or a placebo for 12 weeks during the cold season.
The group that took the garlic supplement experienced significantly fewer colds compared to the placebo group.
Additionally, those who did catch a cold recovered more quickly when they had been taking garlic.
Raw Garlic For Colds: How Does It Work?
Consuming raw garlic is one of the most effective ways to harness its immune-boosting power.
When garlic is eaten raw, allicin is released and can immediately start working to fight off the cold virus.
Eating raw garlic at the first sign of a cold can potentially reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness.
Garlic For Coughs And Respiratory Symptoms
Garlic’s anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in relieving coughs and other respiratory symptoms associated with colds.
The compounds in garlic help to clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe.
Drinking a tea made from boiled garlic cloves can provide relief from persistent coughing.
What Does Garlic Do To The Body?
It is generally considered antifungal and antibacterial compounds by inhibiting or killing “pathogenic bacteria” and fungi. In addition, some garlic benefits include high antioxidant properties.
Healthy garlic oil has been used in the ears to prevent infection.
Garlic Oil For Ear Infections
If you notice your child suffering from frequent ear infections, perhaps consider some garlic oil in the ear as this has been shown to have positive results.
Garlic Oil: A Natural Remedy For Ear Infections
Garlic oil is not only good for cold prevention but also a natural remedy for ear infections.
Ear infections are often caused by bacteria or viruses, and garlic’s antimicrobial properties can help to kill these pathogens.
Applying garlic oil directly to the ear can provide relief from pain and help to clear the infection.
To make garlic oil at home, crush a few cloves of garlic and mix them with olive oil. Heat the mixture slightly, then allow it to cool before applying a few drops into the affected ear.
This remedy can be particularly useful for children who are prone to ear infections.
Link Between Garlic Being Good For High Blood Pressure
It is good for high blood pressure. This is because it can lower blood pressure by breaking down the protein in artery walls that can cause high blood pressure.
When it is ingested by the body, it produces allium, which is one of the compounds with anti-clotting properties.
One study shows that extracts or supplementation can also lower blood pressure, bringing your body closer to the normal healthy ranges.
What about the spice garlic powder, is it good for high blood pressure too?
Yes, using the powder to cook is also great for lowering blood pressure. There is still allicin in the powder.
Studies have shown that the use of garlic powder has a positive effect on blood pressure and cholesterol levels (1, 2).
Is Garlic Good For HBP And Benefits For High Blood Pressure?
So garlic can be good for those suffering from high blood pressure.
However, always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements. This is because some supplements might interfere with your own current medications.
Cholesterol Levels And Risk Of Heart Disease
It has been used for many centuries to treat various diseases and illnesses.
However, recent studies have indicated a positive effect on heart health, particularly in decreasing bad cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure.
How Does Garlic Benefit And Help Stop Cold And Flu Symptoms?
So, why is it so powerful for prevention of the common head cold, flu, and boost immunity?
Some researchers believe it is the sulfur compounds and allicins, saponins and amino acid derivatives found in it that are responsible for targeting cold and flu symptoms.
How To Incorporate Garlic Into Your Diet For Immune Support
For those wondering, “Is eating raw garlic good for you?”, the answer is a resounding yes.
There are several ways to incorporate it into your diet, so it can start helping you fight those cold and flu symptoms.
Eating Raw Garlic For Colds
Why eat raw garlic, can it benefit you? Is chewing raw garlic actually good for you, or can it be bad?
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Chewing it has the same effect when you crush fresh garlic. There is a chemical reaction that releases allicin.
Allicin loses its effectiveness property when heated through cooking. So, it’s best to eat it raw.
Try eating a raw clove of garlic every few hours, which is good for you when you are feeling under the weather.
Trust me, you will notice benefits from the garlic in no time. It might be a strong but good way, so consider chewing raw garlic to prevent cold and flu.
Eating raw garlic is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting the full spectrum of its health benefits.
However, the strong taste and odor of raw garlic can be off-putting for some. If you find it difficult to eat raw garlic, try mincing it and adding it to a salad or mixing it with honey for a more palatable option.
I love making my own healthy “immunity concoction” with some raw garlic, manuka honey, fresh ginger, and lemon juice. I will either eat this raw or add it to a hot cup of water to drink.
How Much Raw Garlic Should You Eat Per Day To See A Benefit When Sick From Colds?
It is a strong natural medicine in food that has many benefits. The recommended amount to eat per day is roughly three to four cloves a day when you are feeling a bit sick either from a cold or flu.
Cooking With Garlic
What health benefits happen when you cook your garlic? Add it in your food while cooking. Cooking and sautéing reduces its pungency and makes it a little easier to eat.
Cooking garlic is another great way to incorporate it into your diet, though it’s important to note that heating garlic can reduce the amount of allicin available.
To maximize the health benefits of cooked garlic, try crushing it and allowing it to sit for 10 minutes before cooking. This process helps preserve the allicin content.
Is Garlic Powder Good For You?
Garlic powder is a great way to add flavor and nutrients like calcium, iron, and potassium.
However, it can be very strong, so you should use it in moderation.
In addition, one of the health benefits of the powder is a decrease in blood pressure and serum triglyceride levels that happens when you cook your garlic (1, 2).
Garlic powder is also a convenient way to add garlic to your meals, but like cooked garlic, it contains less allicin.
However, it still offers many of the same benefits, such as reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Garlic Supplements
If eating raw or cooked garlic isn’t appealing, garlic supplements are a good alternative.
Garlic supplements can provide a concentrated dose of allicin and other beneficial compounds without the strong taste and odor.
When choosing a garlic supplement, look for one that specifies the amount of allicin it contains to ensure you’re getting an effective dose.
Make Sure Garlic Is Right For You!
Do a little more research on the benefits of garlic against cold and flu symptoms to ensure it targets those you are actually suffering from.
Also, check to make sure you are not allergic, because if your body is unsuited for it, it will not do you any good.
Get Familiar With The Smell Of Garlic
If you have used it before, you know it has a distinctive smell.
No matter how much you wash it, the smell never goes away. This smell is due to the presence of the same agents responsible for remedying a cold and flu. If you are interested in using it, then get used to it now.
You might consider using a tongue scraper to help get rid of the pungent smell on your breath. I personally have had some success drinking a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to get rid of the strong smell. It might help for you as well.
Other Health Benefits Of Garlic
Garlic has so many health benefits beyond the immune system. Here are a few other notable health benefits that garlic provides for the body.
Garlic And Heart Health
In addition to boosting the immune system and fighting colds, garlic is also known for its cardiovascular benefits.
Garlic can help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent blood clots.
These benefits are primarily due to garlic’s ability to produce allicin and other sulfur-containing compounds, which have been shown to improve overall heart health.
Garlic’s Antioxidant Properties
Garlic is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
These antioxidants not only boost the immune system but also help to prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
The antioxidants in garlic also contribute to its anti-aging properties, helping to keep the skin looking youthful and healthy.
Garlic For Digestion
Garlic has been used traditionally to support digestive health. It helps to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
Garlic’s antimicrobial properties also make it effective in treating conditions like SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and other digestive disorders.
Precautions When Using Garlic
While garlic is generally safe for most people, it can cause some side effects, especially when consumed in large amounts.
Possible Side Effects Of Garlic
Common side effects include digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and stomach cramps.
Some people may also experience heartburn or an allergic reaction to garlic.
If you have a history of stomach ulcers or acid reflux, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before adding large amounts of garlic to your diet.
Garlic And Medication Interactions
Garlic can interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners like warfarin. The compounds in garlic that help prevent blood clots can enhance the effects of blood-thinning medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
If you’re taking any medications, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using garlic as a supplement.
Is Garlic Good For You?
There’s a reason garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments.
Its ability to boost the immune system, prevent and treat colds, and provide a range of other health benefits makes it a valuable addition to any diet.
Whether you’re eating it raw, cooking with it, or taking it as a supplement, garlic can play a key role in maintaining your health, especially during cold and flu season.
Powerful Tool In Your Natural Healthcare Toolkit
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your immune system and stop a cold quickly, garlic is an excellent choice. Incorporate it into your diet regularly to take advantage of its powerful health benefits.
And remember, while garlic can be a helpful tool in preventing and treating colds, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or are taking medications.
Let’s Discuss Garlic Uses And Cold Prevention!
Have you ever tried eating some raw to boost your immunity or get rid of a cold fast? What has been your experience with using garlic or supplements as a cold prevention food and boost your immunity?
Let me know if you have used garlic as a good natural remedy to help boost the immune system.
I hope you guys love this article! If you try any of these holistic health and nutrition tips, please leave a comment below and let me know what you think.
Tag me @EatYourNutrition on Instagram. I love seeing your photos. #EatYourNutrition #LauraVillanueva
📚 References
- Ali M, Al-Qattan KK, Al-Enezi F, Khanafer RM, Mustafa T. Effect of allicin from garlic powder on serum lipids and blood pressure in rats fed with a high cholesterol diet. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2000 Apr;62(4):253-9. doi: 10.1054/plef.2000.0152. PMID: 10882191.
- Ried K. Garlic lowers blood pressure in hypertensive subjects, improves arterial stiffness and gut microbiota: A review and meta-analysis. Exp Ther Med. 2020;19(2):1472-1478. doi:10.3892/etm.2019.8374
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