When you catch a cold or the flu, a stuffy nose is common. Your nose, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, has a tough time fighting off bacteria, making your nasal and sinus passages at risk for congestion. Garlic, or Allium sativum, is an aromatic spice and a food source that may help to alleviate mild nasal congestion. If your symptoms persist, however, or if nasal discharge is green or yellow, you may have a sinus infection that requires medical attention.
Garlic
Individual garlic “cloves” nestle tightly together to form a lobed garlic bulb, which develops beneath the soil. Garlic contains fructosans, saponins and allins, which may give the herb its antiviral, antifungal and antimicrobial properties, according to the “PDR for Herbal Medicines.” The herb is potentially useful for reducing blood cholesterol and high blood pressure. Folk medicine uses include the treatment of respiratory conditions, intestinal gas, PMS and constipation. Clinical studies confirming those benefits, however, are lacking.
Effect on a Stuffy Nose
As an antiviral, theoretically, garlic may be beneficial for treating viral infections that cause stuffy noses, such as colds and influenza, reports the “Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine.” In addition, fresh garlic’s pungent taste can release secretions that assist in draining nasal passages. In supplement form, taking garlic daily may increase your overall immunity to help keep you from catching viruses.
Administration
The “Gale Encyclopedia” recommends consuming up to three cloves of garlic daily to prevent viral infections, but there is no specific dosage recommendation for treating a stuffy nose. If you’re taking garlic capsules or tablets, follow the dosage instructions on the package.
Considerations
When consumed as a seasoning for foods, garlic is safe for most people, but at higher dosages, it may cause side effects, including dizziness, headache and fatigue, in addition to stomach upset, reports the “PDR.” Do not consume garlic if you have a sulfur allergy or if you’re taking blood-thinning drugs. Garlic may interfere with other medications you’re taking, including drugs used to treat HIV. Herbal remedies can’t replace your doctor’s advice, so don’t use garlic or any other herb to treat a medical condition unless directed to do so by your doctor.
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery, Stuffy Nose
- “PDR for Herbal Medicines, Second Edition”; Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D., 2000
- “Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine”; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
