Garlic, a potently medicinal plant in the onion family, has been used extensively throughout history as a treatment for common diseases and conditions. Although multiple peer-reviewed clinical studies support garlic's use in some medicinal capacities, other uses remain ultimately unproven. Because no scientific inquiries have investigated raw garlic's efficacy in the treatment of sinusitis, there is no consensus regarding the safest, most effective dose.
Function
Many of the medicinal uses of raw garlic are well-supported by modern medical science. The University of Maryland Medical center reports that garlic appears to effectively improve cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and keeping arteries supple. Raw, cooked and processed garlic also appear to reduce the risk of several forms of cancer by 30 percent or more. Several laboratory tests demonstrate that garlic's active compound, allicin, exhibits anti-fungal, antibacterial and immune-supportive effects.
Evidence
Allicin's ability to fight infectious fungi and bacteria make it a plausible treatment for sinus infections, but few human trials have investigated raw garlic's specific impact on sinusitis. While acknowledging the herb's folk use as a treatment for sinus congestion, the National Institutes of Health cites no specific evidence of its value. Only one peer-reviewed clinical trial, carried out in 1991 and published in Vestn Otorinolaringol, has examined garlic's impact on sinusitis. The scientists determined that garlic and sunflower slightly reduced sinus inflammation in children also taking diphenhydramine (Benadryl). However, more trials are needed to confirm these findings.
General Dosing Guidelines
Dosing guidelines for raw garlic vary considerably; there is not yet a scientific consensus regarding the safest, most effective dose for general use. According to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, allicin comprises 1 percent of the weight of raw garlic. For the treatment of cardiovascular disease, the NIH recommends 4 g of fresh garlic daily, or approximately one clove. Mixed daily doses totaling 3.5 to 29 g weekly have also been used. The side effects associated with the plant are dose-dependent; they become far more common and significant in people consuming higher doses.
Safety and Side Effects
Raw garlic is safe and nontoxic when used in reasonable amounts. Because it is edible and carries little to no risk of toxicity, there is no danger of overdose in humans taking oral garlic supplements. The most common side effects associated with raw garlic include pungent body odor, bad breath and a burning sensation in the mouth. NIH also reports that garlic can cause gastrointestinal upset such as heartburn and diarrhea. An appropriate dose may depend upon a person's own biology and willingness to tolerate unpleasant side effects. Consult a qualified health care provider for help establishing treatment guidelines for a sinus infection.
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