Garlic is a Natural Antibiotic: Traditionally Garlic has been used Around the World as an Antibiotic

We can all agree to one thing:

Garlic has a distinct odor, but its medicinal value is undeniable.

No wonder garlic has been used as medicine around the world since time immemorial. But with advancement in science, garlic is now valued more than ever before. And that’s because…

…garlic inhibits the growth of bacteria, which means garlic works as a natural antibiotic.

That is exactly what we will discuss in this article- the use of garlic as antibiotic.

This is crazy, right?

Who knew that this pungent spice lying in your kitchen could be so useful! And this information is backed by solid scientific researches over the years. So, let’s get started and find out more about garlic's antibacterial properties.

Was Garlic Used As Medicine Around The World?

Garlic has been used for ages as antiseptic, and not just to make food spicy. In the ancient society, people would apply garlic on wounds. This would keep infection at bay. During World War I and II, soldiers had to take garlic to arrest gangrene.

Even 18^th century gravediggers in France consumed wine containing crushed garlic to stay protected from plague. This intriguing spice is known to possess healing properties including antioxidant and anti-infective properties.

But what you really want to know is:

Does Garlic Prevent Bacterial Growth?

Allicin is the essential compound in garlic that contains antibacterial properties. On crushing garlic bulbs, allicin is formed from alliin (inside garlic). The pungent odor in garlic also comes from allicin. National University of Health Sciences researchers uncovered that allicin can potentially fight against bacteria.

It gets better:

Another study at the Washington State University in 2012 came up with something more interesting. It shows that garlic is 100 times more efficient than antibiotics in treating intestinal infections. It is way better than other popular antibiotics, read more here. Other studies show that garlic actually prevents tumor growth, read here.

But here’s the deal:

To make the most of this antibacterial property, you need to use raw garlic. You cannot boil or use it in your curry and expect incredible results.

In short:

Raw garlic has greater antibacterial effect than other commercial antibiotics.

Now:

You have all the evidence, so let’s uncover how you can use this natural antibiotic.

How To Make The Most Of Garlic’s Antibacterial Property?

• Garlic oil kills the bacteria causing intestinal infection
• Garlic oil/ juice when applied on staph infection or athlete’s foot will kill bacteria directly
• Nose drops made from garlic can kill the flu causing virus
• Crushed garlic when applied on open wound, prevents gangrene

Other Healing Properties Of Garlic:

Garlic contains anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidants and nutrients. It is rich source of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and selenium. Garlic is really good for manganese, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C deficiency. Other compounds in garlic include natural sugars like inulin, fructose and glucose.

Want to know the best part?

You don’t have to burn your pocket or search the whole world for this remarkable spice. It is easily available, and is extremely cost-effective.

So, what’s the bottom line?

Garlic is one among the best natural antibiotics for infection.

Also Read: Garlic and the Immune System: Garlic Strengthens Body's Natural Defence System Against Bacteria, Viruses and other Microorganisms