Garlic has been used as an herbal medicine for thousands of years, and many people use garlic supplements to treat a wide variety of health conditions, including heart disease and fungal infections. Although garlic is generally safe and well-tolerated, it may cause mild side effects, such as acid reflux. As with any health supplement, ask your doctor before taking garlic supplements.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux, which is also called gastroesophageal reflux or more commonly heartburn, occurs when the valve that separates the throat from the stomach does not close properly or opens spontaneously. When this valve is open, digestive juices from the stomach, which are often acidic, can rise up into the back of the throat, causing a burning sensation. Garlic is one of the most common triggers of acid reflux, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Other Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Garlic and garlic supplements may cause other gastrointestinal side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are a strong garlic odor emanating from the breath and the body. Garlic may also cause a burning sensation in the mouth or stomach, which could possibly be mistaken for acid reflux. Nausea, vomiting, gas, abdominal bloating and diarrhea are also possible side effects. These gastrointestinal side effects are often stronger after eating raw garlic compared to cooked garlic or garlic supplements, reports the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Additional Rare Side Effects
In rare cases, garlic may cause more severe side effects, including fatigue, headache, dizziness, appetite loss and muscle pain, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. A severe allergic reaction may also develop in certain individuals, which can cause itching, rash, swelling of the face or throat and difficulty breathing. Handling raw garlic may irritate the skin, causing a rash or skin lesions.
Interactions with Medications
Garlic supplements may cause potentially dangerous interactions with certain medications, particularly anticoagulant medicines such as warfarin or aspirin. Taking garlic reduces the ability of the blood to form clots, and taking other anticoagulants at the same time can increase the risk of severe bleeding, warns MedlinePlus. Avoid taking garlic at least two weeks before undergoing surgery or dental procedures to minimize the risk of severe bleeding.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Garlic; July 2010
- MedlinePlus: Garlic; December 2010
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse:Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD; May 2007)
