The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database reports that garlic has antimicrobial properties that make it an effective agent against some fungi and viruses. Research also suggests that garlic lowers cholesterol and fights blood clots, and there is some scientific evidence that garlic fights bacteria as well; however, consult a physician before attempting any naturopathic treatments at home.
Allicin
Allicin, a compound found in garlic, has antibacterial properties, according to researchers at Nihon University in Japan. Allicin is known to deter the growth of 300 different bacteria, including methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureas, or MRSA. The exact mechanism by which allicin works is not known. The researchers tested garlic extract and pure allicin, finding that the garlic extract was more effective in killing staph than allicin alone, pointing to the possibility that others compounds in garlic work with allicin to kill bacteria. The study concluded that there is promise for the use of garlic as an antibiotic, and that more research is needed.
Diallyl Sulfides
Helicobacter pylori is the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers. While garlic has been traditionally used to combat ulcers in many cultures, there is little scientific evidence as to its efficacy. A May 2000 study published in the journal "Applied and Environmental Microbiology" investigated garlic's potential to fight ulcers, and while the results indicated that garlic can be effective in controlling or eradicating H. pylori, the researchers noted that more studies are needed to build upon their work.
Ajoene
Ajoene is a chemical component found in garlic that kills staphylococcus aureus and other gram-positive bacteria like streptomyces griseus--commonly found in dirt--according to a November 1996 study published in the journal "Applied and Environmental Biology." Ajoene also has anti-fungal properties and is used as a treatment for athlete's foot. A November 2000 study conducted by researchers in Venezuela reported that a twice-daily 1 percent ajoene topical preparation cured athlete's foot after 60 days of use. The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database states that ajoene is just as effective as terbinafine or Lamisil in treating athlete's foot.
References
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: Garlic
- PubMed: Antibacterial potential of allicin and its cancellation by sulfhydryl compounds
- "Applied and Environmental Microbiology": Inhibition of microbial growth by ajoene, a sulfur-containing compound derived from garlic
- PubMed: Efficacy of ajoene in the treatment of tinea pedis: a double-blind and comparative study with terbinafine.
- "Applied and Environmental Microbiology": Activities of Garlic Oil, Garlic Powder, and Their Diallyl Constituents against Helicobacter pylori
Member Comments