11 Surprising Benefits of Garlic
Garlic: It’s not just for cooking anymore! Beyond its pungent aroma, garlic is a powerhouse of health benefits that you may not be aware of. From improving sleep to fighting off colds, garlic has some surprising uses that you’ll wish you had known about sooner. Don’t let the smell deter you, because the benefits are worth it!
1. Restful Sleep
Did you know that placing a clove of garlic beneath your pillow can actually help improve your sleep? The sulfur compounds in garlic have a soothing effect on the body, promoting relaxation and combating insomnia. For a sleep aid, make a concoction by heating chopped garlic and cream with a tablespoon of honey. Drink it an hour before bed and experience the difference in your sleep quality.
2. Natural Cold Remedy
For centuries, garlic has been used as a natural antibiotic and cold remedy. If you’re battling a cold, try this remedy: boil water, add a chopped clove of garlic, and stir in some sugar. Drink this mixture daily for a week to help alleviate cold symptoms and boost your immune system.
3. Garlic the Aphrodisiac
Forget about oysters and chocolate, garlic is actually considered to be a potent aphrodisiac. Garlic extracts are believed to have aphrodisiac properties that can enhance your mood and libido. So, if you’re looking to spice things up in the bedroom, it might be worth giving garlic a try.
4. Acne Treatment
Say goodbye to acne with the help of garlic! Garlic’s antibiotic and antibacterial properties make it an effective treatment for acne. Simply apply a clove of garlic to the affected area before bedtime to help reduce inflammation and fight off acne-causing bacteria.
5. Natural Antiseptic
In a pinch, garlic can be used as a natural antiseptic for minor injuries. Just peel a garlic clove and apply it directly to the wound to clean and promote healing. However, keep in mind that it should not replace proper medical attention for serious injuries.
6. Say No to Hair Loss
If you’re experiencing hair loss, garlic could be your secret weapon. The allicin found in garlic has anti-hair loss properties. You can try applying slices of garlic or a mixture of crushed garlic and olive oil to your hair to help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss.
7. Splinter Removal
Dealing with a pesky splinter? Garlic can come to the rescue! Place a small clove of garlic on the splinter and cover it with a bandage overnight. The antimicrobial properties of garlic can help soften the skin and ease the pain, making it easier to remove the splinter the next day.
8. Mosquito Repellent
Tired of pesky mosquito bites? Garlic can help keep those bloodsuckers at bay. You can either create a spray using petroleum jelly, beeswax, and essential oil of garlic or simply sprinkle cloves of garlic in mosquito-prone areas. The strong scent of garlic acts as a natural mosquito repellent.
9. Cold Sore Relief
If you suffer from cold sores, garlic can be your ally in the healing process. Crushed garlic can help reduce swelling and speed up the healing of cold sores. Additionally, incorporating more garlic into your diet can boost your immune system, helping your body fight off the virus.
10. Toothache Pain Relief
Toothache keeping you up at night? Garlic to the rescue! Create a paste by crushing garlic and mixing it with salt. Apply this paste to the affected area for instant pain relief. Alternatively, you can simply bite off a small piece of garlic and hold it against the painful tooth.
11. Garlic is easy to include in your diet and adds flavor
The last one isn’t a health benefit but is still important.
Garlic is very easy to include in your current diet. It complements most savory dishes, particularly soups and sauces. The strong taste of garlic can also add a punch to otherwise bland recipes.