Garlic Healing Herb
Garlic can rightly be called the king of the herbs.
Although we think of it in terms of food and seasoning, garlic has
long been prized for its numerous healing properties. For at least
5,000 years, garlic has stood as the king of healing herbs. It has
been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of further
heart attacks in cardiac patients, and stimulate the immune system
as a powerful antibiotic. The strong odor that garlic is famous for
is due to its sulfur-containing compounds that are also responsible
for most of its medicinal properties. So, when it comes to garlic,
its strong smell and taste is also what gives it such healing
properties. It has been shown that 'deodorized' varieties of garlic
have less healing properties than the conventional, smelly
varieties.
The most important parts of the garlic plant are its
cloves. Garlic cloves are well known for treating infections,
especially infections of the chest area. They are also known to be
effective against digestive disorders and fungal infections,
including yeast infections. Garlic cloves have also been
successfully used to as a viable long-term treatment for
cardiovascular problems. They have been shown to effectively reduce
excessive cardiovascular levels, atherosclerosis, and they have been
shown to reduce the risk of thrombosis. Garlic cloves have also been
shown to dilate peripheral blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
Garlic cloves have also been shown to regulate blood sugar levels,
and may prove particularly effective in the treatment of adult-onset
diabetes. Moreover, recent research shows that garlic may act as a
preventative against cancer. Garlic cloves can also be applied
topically to treat a variety of skin disorders and infections,
including acne. As with most other herbs, garlic is best used fresh.
There are many popular applications for garlic that can be easily
prepared at home. For instance, for the treatment of skin
infections, corns, warts or acne, you can mash fresh garlic cloves
and apply topically. Eating garlic cloves regularly is also
recommended for protecting against any number of infections, as well
as for the health benefits that include lower cholesterol levels,
improved quality of the cardiovascular system, and lower blood sugar
levels. For the treatment of severe digestive disorders, including
dysentery, worms, and gastroenteritis, the consumption of 3-6
crushed cloves daily is recommended.
For the treatment of intestinal parasites, a maceration is
recommended. Simply seep 3-4 garlic cloves in water or milk
overnight and drink the next day. Garlic can also be easily consumed
in capsule form. Garlic powder is recommended. Recent clinical
trials have shown that to prevent further heart attacks in
individuals who have already suffered a heart attack, 2 g of garlic
powder in capsules taken daily is recommended. An alternative to
garlic powder capsules are the commercial 'pearl' capsules. However,
be aware that these more deodorized versions are also apt to be less
effective.
Be aware that garlic can irritate sensitive stomachs, and it is not
recommended to take therapeutic doses during pregnancy or lactation.
|
- Natural Remedies
- Home Remedies
|
|