Garlic

Garlic (Allium sativum) bulbs with long green leaves bundled together, freshly harvested and displayed at a market.
1–2 minutes

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Garlic has a long history of medicinal uses for boosting immunity, fighting infections, and improving heart health by potentially lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, and preventing plaque buildup.

Potential anti-cancer effects, supporting digestion, bone health, and cognitive function.

Plant Details

Botanical identity
  • Latin name: Allium sativum
  • Family: Amaryllidaceae family
  • Native range: Historical birthplace in Central Asia, cultivated worldwide
Medicinal profile
  • Parts used: Bulb
  • Herbal actions: Antibacterial, Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant, Antiparasitic, Antitumor, Antiviral, Diaphoretic, Expectorant
  • Body systems: Cardiovascular, Digestive, Immune, Metabolic, Sketetal
  • Energetics: Warming & Circulating
Growing profile
  • Sun needs: full sun
  • Water: moderate
  • Difficulty: intermediate
Simple preparation note

Alliin compound becomes Allicin when exposed to oxygen. Allicin is responsible for the pungent odor and taste, as well as many of its health benefits. Crush the garlic and let it sit before using to maximize its formation. Raw garlic-infused honey or olive oil.

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