Garlic has been cultivated for centuries for both culinary and medicinal uses. This herb is also known as nectar of the gods, camphor of the poor, stinking rose and by its scientific name Allium sativum.
The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) says garlic is originally from central Asia, but is now cultivated all over the world.
Garlic and the Stomach
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), garlic is used to prevent certain kinds of cancer, including colon and stomach cancer.
The UMMC web site also describes several studies that may support garlic's use in preventing colon or stomach cancer. But much more study needs to be done to prove its effectiveness.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine (USNLM) says garlic may someday be used to treat gastric or duodenum ulcers. Unfortunately, clinical studies so far seem to show that it is not beneficial for treating ulcers.
Parts Used
The bulb of the garlic plant or the oil from the individual cloves that make up the bulb are used in cooking and for medicinal treatments. The garlic cloves can be crushed or chopped and can be used raw, dried or cooked. Studies suggest that each form of the herb can have different effects on the body. Be sure to consult your health care professional for instructions.
Side Effects
According to UCCAM, garlic seems to be safe for most adults. However, ingestion of the herb can cause unpleasant body odor and bad breath. Consuming raw garlic can also cause indigestion, heartburn or allergic reactions. Care should be taken when considering the use of garlic because the ingestion of garlic can adversely interact with some other herbal preparations or medications.
Research
Scientific studies are testing garlic as an herbal treatment. These studies have been funded by the NCCAM, but it is too soon to draw any conclusions about the herb's effectiveness.
The NCCAM website says some studies support the theory that garlic can prevent stomach or colon cancer, but other studies seem to show it has no effect. More study on the subject needs to be done before any conclusions can be made.
Caution
The U.S. National Library of Medicine warns that garlic may increase the chances of bleeding, so be sure to tell your health care provider you're using it if you will be having surgery or dental work done.
Garlic may have harmful interactions when used with medications for blood pressure, diabetes or lowering cholesterol. Care should be taken to prevent these interactions by telling your health care provider about all of the medications and supplements you use, including garlic.
Any new substance can cause serious allergic reactions. If you notice a rash, hives or difficulty breathing while using garlic, discontinue its use and contact your health care provider.
