Garlic is a plant endemic to Asia that has been used for centuries by traditional medicine practices throughout the world because of its many practical health benefits and its pleasant taste. Western research has found that raw garlic confers many positive properties, including antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic and antifungal. Although consuming garlic is a natural way to improve your immune system and prevent heart disease, it has possible side effects.
Gastrointestinal
The most common side effect of eating raw garlic affects your gastrointestinal system. This effect is most pronounced when you consume raw garlic on an empty stomach. You might experience bad breath and flatulence that lead to body odor, along with bloating and stomach pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Therefore, add raw garlic to other foods as a seasoning when you consume it to prevent gastrointestinal upset as much as possible.
Bleeding
Another common side effect of garlic stems from its blood-thinning property, according to the American Family Physician. Although blood thinning can be a health benefit of garlic in some instances, in others it can be negative. Blood that becomes too thin can pose a serious health problem if you are cut and bleed because it will not clot well. If you are going to have surgery, delivery a baby or do anything else that will cause bleeding, do not consume raw garlic. If you are on medications that cause your blood to thin, such as anti-platelet, blood thinners or aspirin, American Family Physician recommends you talk with your doctor before taking garlic, as the drug interaction might harm your health.
Allergy
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that allergic reactions have occurred from eating raw garlic. Depending upon the severity of your allergy, a reaction can manifest itself in your body with skin rash, upset stomach, vomiting, asthma, shock or even death. Although an allergy to garlic is rare, it is not impossible. If you experience any sudden symptoms after touching or consuming garlic, stop use and contact your physician.
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