Garlic is a wonder seasoning that has a plethora of health benefits like very few others. Although it has a pungent flavor, obnoxious smell and very bad taste but the health benefits it provides, are unrivalled which makes it an absolute essential item of daily use in any household. The benefits have been known to man for the last thousands of years and this is the reason why it has been an indispensable additive in all Indian dishes for a very long time.
Let us understand these benefits in detail. You may not remember each of these benefits verbatim but do bear in mind that you should make it an absolute imperative in your cooking. People with certain aggravated conditions and those on medications must consult their physicians before taking off with my advice.
- Fights Cold and Flu
Common cold and flu can be very nasty as these may give you sleepless nights and distressful days that immensely disturb your normal working. Running nose and headaches can disrupt your normal daily schedule and jeopardize all important tasks that lie ahead of you. Consuming Garlic provides you relief from the symptoms of cold and flu. You may consume 2 or 3 pieces of raw or cooked garlic in a day that can give you enormous relief. You could also take garlic tea with a hint of honey to make it more palatable. This will cure a blocked nose and also improve your immunity against frequent bouts of cold and flu. It also reduces incidence of infections and diseases. In any Indian household, all vegetable and pulse curries are essentially made with a concoction of a number of seasonings including garlic.
- Purifies blood
Approximately 5 litres of Blood flows inside our body that goes through all the vital organs. The blood transports nutrients to all parts of the body. Firstly, unhealthy diet containing trans fats, too much salt and sugar and excessive stress raise the chances of hypertension or high blood pressure. Secondly, pollutants from air enter the blood stream and increase the chances of various types of cancers. Hence the blood becomes impure and it is important to purify it to prevent diseases and cancers. If acne is causing you good amount of trouble, I advise you take two pieces of raw garlic with some warm water every day, preferably early in the morning. If you wish to reduce your body weight, add some fresh lemon juice to a glass of warm water along with two pieces of garlic. This helps in cleansing your system by flushing out any toxins that might be there.
- Anti-bacterial action
Garlic is known for its antibiotic action and treats bacterial and fungal infections effectively. Studies on diluted garlic extract suggests tremendous Health Benefits in children with tapeworm infections. A garlic-based mouthwash wards off cavity causing bacteria.
- For Skin and Hair
Garlic has a very positive effect on your skin by protecting the skin from harmful effects of free radicals. Consumption of garlic slows the breakdown of collagen that is responsible for loss of elasticity in the ageing skin. Garlic shows great recovery in skin infected with fungal infection by providing relief from skin ailments like eczema as well as athlete’s foot. Rubbing mashed garlic extract on your scalp or massaging with garlic oil works wonders at preventing hair loss.
- Prevention of Heart Disease
Consuming garlic on a daily basis in whichever way, helps in lowering bad cholesterol because of the anti-oxidant properties of Allicin that it contains. Garlic regulates blood pressure as well as blood sugar levels in a favorable range. Remember, not to overcook garlic if its health benefits are to be derived as Allicin decomposes at higher temperature. I advise you consume it either in raw state or mildly-cooked, if required.
[ Also Read: 5 Daily Foods for a Healthy Heart ]
- Cancer Prevention
Cancers of various kinds like stomach and colorectal cancers can be prevented by regular consumption of garlic. Various credible studies have shown positive results.
Therefore, garlic is a wonder seasoning of daily use that can help you maintain prolonged good health.
