In addition to being a popular addition to almost any Italian dish, garlic may also yield health benefits when used medicinally. Garlic medications -- more commonly referred to as supplements -- contain oil derived from the clove or bulb of the Allium sativum plant. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that garlic contains antioxidants, which may help protect your heart and cells from disease. Be sure to talk with your doctor about the potential side effects of garlic supplements before beginning this natural treatment.
Stomach Discomfort
Treatment with garlic supplements may irritate your digestive tract, leading to side effects of nausea, stomach discomfort and heartburn. You may also develop diarrhea, which typically results in frequent, loose bowel movements accompanied by abdominal cramping and bloating. In conjunction, these stomach-related side effects may lead to a temporary decrease in appetite. Seek care from your physician if you experience severe stomach pain or begin vomiting after taking a garlic supplement.
Breath and Body Odor
Garlic supplements may cause your breath or sweat to emit a strong, garlicky odor. While the characteristically pungent smell of garlic may be pleasant while you're cooking in the kitchen, carrying this odor on your breath or body may be embarrassing. Though this side effect of garlic supplements is temporary, it typically persists for the duration of treatment.
Allergic Reaction
Treatment with this natural supplement may cause allergic reaction symptoms in certain people. Handling a garlic supplement may irritate your skin and may cause a red, itchy rash at the site of contact. Ingesting a garlic supplement may also induce a severe asthma-like reaction. A severe respiratory reaction may result in shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness or pain. Consult your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any allergic reaction side effects as a result of taking garlic supplements.
Infrequent Side Effects
Infrequently, treatment with garlic may cause additional side effects. The UMMC says that garlic may cause fatigue, headache, dizziness and muscle aches. Consequently, you may have difficulty remaining active or attentive throughout your normal daily routine. Contact your medical provider if you develop any of these garlic supplement side effects as these symptoms may also be signs of an alternate health issue, such as the common cold or flu.
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