Belonging to the same family as the onion this amazing little herb packs one almighty wallop when it comes to an array of health benefits. The most notable compound found in garlic is Allicin which although does not naturally occur in garlic, helps to improve your immune system, acts as an antiviral along with a host of other benefits. Only once garlic is finely chopped or crushed is Allicin produced, and the finer the chopping the more that is produced. Allicin starts to degrade quickly so make sure to eat your chopped or crushed garlic (raw) as soon as possible so as to ensure you are getting the full benefit. It can either be eaten raw or sprinkled over (or into) your favourite foods.
Modern doctors will not usually prescribe garlic for a range of ailments due to their study backgrounds being predominantly in pharmaceuticals; however, herbal practitioners are consistently singing the praises of natures little wonder herb, garlic. And so should you.
Garlic and Impotence
“For most men erectile dysfunction is physiological and not psychological. In order to maintain an erection the arteries need to have an efficient blood flow. Erectile dysfunction indicates a hardening of the arteries, which means it could be an early biomarker of impending cardiovascular disease.” Source: BBC
Amazingly, garlic has been proven by medical researchers to stimulate the production of an enzyme called nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and particularly in individuals who have less than healthy levels of this enzyme. NOS is the enzyme which is primarily responsible for the mechanism of an erection.
The Health Properties of Garlic
Take a look at the following health benefits that can be found in garlic:
- Used effectively for the treatment of high blood pressure
- Stimulates a healthy operation of the kidneys and is a natural diuretic in nature
- Effective blood purifier
- Used as an expectorant (i.e. swap your cough syrup for a clove of garlic)
- Helps to heal fractured bones
- Contains allicin which has antiviral, antioxidant and antifungal and germicidal effects
- Improves erectile dysfunction
- Reduces blood cholesterol
- Ability to dissolve blood clots
Nutritional Information for Garlic
Per average size clove (0.1 oz)
- Total Fat = 0g
- Cholesterol = 0mg
- Sodium = 1mg
- Total Carbs = 1g
- Dietary Fiber = 0.1g
- Sugars = 0g
- Protein = 0.2g
- Calcium = 5.4mg
- Potassium = 12mg
Source: calorieking.com
Well there you have it, eating just a few cloves of raw garlic will significantly improve your health (and your love life), however consult your doctor before hand, as the intake of raw garlic may irritate those with stomach and / or throat conditions. Where possible try and have raw and fresh garlic over supplements, capsules or oils, as this ensures you are getting the full potency from garlic and can then enjoy the inherent benefits.
