II. History
- Used in ancient medicine as far back as 5000 years ago
III. Mechanism
- Active ingredient: Thiosulfinates (e.g. Allicin)
- Alliin converted to Allicin by alliinase enzyme
- Alliinase released when Garlic crushed or chopped
- Alliinase deactivated by heat and Stomach acid
- Therefore Allicin most active in raw, fresh form
IV. Efficacy: Well supported benefits
- Moderate lipid lowering effect (initial)
- Total Cholesterol may be reduced 4-6% initially
- Longterm benefits are unclear
- Stevinson (2000) Ann Intern Med 133:240-9 [PubMed]
- Antihypertensive effect
- Lowers SBP up to 7 mmHg
- Lowers DBP up to 5 mmHg
- Ackermann (2001) Arch Intern Med 161:813-24 [PubMed]
V. Efficacy: Variable benefits
- Decreased risk of thrombosis and atherosclerosis
- Decreased Stomach Cancer and Colon Cancer risk
- Decreased infection risk
VI. Adverse Effects
- Halitosis and altered body odor
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Flatulence
VII. Precautions
- May prolong Bleeding Time
- Stop 7-10 days before surgery
VIII. Dosing
- Raw Garlic: 4 grams (1-2 cloves) daily
- Dried powder (enteric coated) 300 mg bid to tid
- Aged Garlic extract 7.2 grams daily
IX. Drug Interactions
- May decrease drug levels of agents transported by P-Glycoprotein