Garlic Nutrition

Scientific Name: Allium sativum

Order: Asparagales

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Garlic (Allium sativum) can be eaten fresh or added to food as a spice. Do not confuse garlic with the highly toxic plant, autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale), a plant that looks like garlic. For patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) [Galeone et al. 2007] or prostate cancer [Salem et al. 2011], consuming garlic may improve health outcomes. Safety: Some people are allergic to garlic, and inhalation of garlic powder may cause asthma. Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising, such as increase nosebleeds, bad interactions with anti-coagulation and anti-platelet drugs, and cause bleeding after shock wave lithotripsy (SWL). Excessive garlic use may decrease red blood cell hemoglobin production. There have been cases of garlic causing obstruction of the small intestines, gastrointestinal pain, hematemesis, and hematochezia, as well as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Applying garlic onto the skin can cause burns, contact dermatitis, and may cause a photo contact allergic reaction. Garlic can also cause burns if held within the mouth. Avoid garlic use at least 2 weeks before surgery. Safety information was derived from the following sources: [Alvarez et al. 2003]; [Bagga et al. 2008]; [Baruchin et al. 2001]; [Carden et al. 2002]; [Delaney et al. 1996]; [Falleroni et al. 1981]; [Friedman et al. 2006]; [Gravas et al. 2009]; [Jappe et al. 1999]; [Lachter et al. 2003]; [Lemière et al. 1996]; [Lybarger et al. 1982]; [Moneret-Vautrin et al. 2002]; [Moyle et al. 2004]; [Parish et al. 1987]; [Pérez-Pimiento et al. 1999]; [Polat et al. 2007]; [Rafaat et al. 2000]; [Ruocco et al. 1996]; [Shakeel et al. 2010]; [Silva et al. 2013]; [van der Walt et al. 2010].