Raw garlic has been a source of food for those who prefer an unprocessed approach to a healthy diet and for those who may not want to deal with the strong odor that most commercialized produce may give off. Raw garlic has very few “side effects,” and its health benefits have been known for thousands of years. If you are thinking about adding this tasty supplement to your diet, here are some of the many Raw garlic benefits.

Garlic’s many health benefits. Eating raw garlic is very beneficial for those who suffer from high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and digestive disorders. Garlic is also a very good source of allicin, an organic sulfur-producing chemical associated with numerous health benefits, including several types of cancer. Allicin is made when raw garlic is chopped or crushed (, ), which helps to release the potent allicin that produces the distinctive flavor and aroma of this spicy, sour food.

Raw garlic bulbs provide numerous health benefits, including the ability to reduce cholesterol, regulate blood glucose, and aid digestion. It is also a good source of vitamin C, beta carotene, fiber, magnesium, potassium, and numerous other vitamins and nutrients. The Greeks believed that eating the bulb on a daily basis was like drinking “a constant flow of sweet wine,” since it contains no taste, making it particularly palatable for those with a sweet tooth. The benefits of eating raw garlic extend beyond those of simply having a sweet tooth. It is also a powerful antioxidant, preventing cell damage and strengthening the immune system.

Another benefit of garlic is the ability to treat various infections, many of which may appear in the throat or ears. Raw cloves contain antibacterial properties, which can be used directly or applied topically to the infection or in combinations with other herbs and spices. Garlic can also be combined with oils from plants such as oregano and thyme, which can be used as poultices to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and soothe irritations and infections. Some people also enjoy the effects of using garlic and oregano essential oils combined; it is usually best to use two separate oils to get the full benefits.

A third benefit of raw garlic is that it can act as an effective natural cough suppressant. Many people experience difficulty breathing when they have a cold or sore throat. Raw garlic can be chewed, but it will not have the same effect as when it is cooked. When a person coughs, the juices from the mouth and throat are injected into the air, helping to clear up the airways. This is why people who are unable to eat raw garlic are recommended to chew cooked garlic instead. If you choose to eat cooked garlic, be sure to keep some on hand for emergencies, especially if you tend to have sore throats often.

Most people are familiar with at least one side effect of most prescription drugs, even over-the-counter medications. These include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. While these side effects can be unpleasant and bothersome, they are not usually life threatening. The most common side effects of taking prescription drugs are increased heart rate and blood pressure, feeling fatigued or worn out, and the need to take more medication. These side effects can be dangerous if they occur on a regular basis, especially if the doses are not adjusted properly. When eating raw garlic regularly, there is no need to take as much medication, so fewer side effects occur.