Garlic: The Superfood from the Allium Family
Garlic is a member of the Allium family, which also includes onions, shallots, and leeks. It is a versatile ingredient used in cooking and traditional medicine for centuries.
Health Benefits of Garlic
Garlic has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including:
- Reducing cholesterol levels
- Preventing blood clots
- Boosting the immune system
- Fighting infections
- Lowering blood pressure
- Improving heart health
- Reducing the risk of cancer
How to Use Garlic
To get the most benefits from garlic, it is best to eat it raw. Cooking destroys the beneficial compound in garlic called allicin.
You can add raw garlic to salads, soups, stews, and marinades. You can also find garlic supplements in pill or liquid form.
Garlic Supplements
Garlic supplements are a convenient way to get the benefits of garlic without having to eat it raw. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking garlic supplements, as they may interact with certain medications.
Garlic in Traditional Medicine
Garlic has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including:
- Respiratory infections
- Stomach problems
- Parasites
- Fatigue
- Wounds
- Burns
How to Make Garlic Fire Cider
Garlic Fire Cider is a traditional tonic that is said to boost the immune system and fight off colds and flu. It is made with raw garlic, apple cider vinegar, and other spices.
To make Garlic Fire Cider, you will need:
- 1 cup peeled and crushed garlic cloves
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup grated ginger
- 1/2 cup grated horseradish
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Combine all ingredients in a glass jar and let steep for at least 3 days. Strain and store in the refrigerator.
Take 1-2 tablespoons of Garlic Fire Cider daily to boost your immune system and fight off colds and flu.
Tips for Using Garlic
- Add raw garlic to your meals to get the most benefits.
- If you experience gastro upset from eating raw garlic, try cooking it lightly.
- Garlic supplements are a convenient way to get the benefits of garlic without having to eat it raw.
- Talk to your doctor before taking garlic supplements, as they may interact with certain medications.
- Garlic Fire Cider is a traditional tonic that can help boost the immune system and fight off colds and flu.
