Garlic tablets are a dietary supplement made from the bulb of the garlic plant, Allium sativum. These supplements are concentrated to deliver the plant’s beneficial compounds in a convenient format. People often choose garlic tablets to gain the health advantages of garlic without the strong odor or taste associated with raw garlic cloves. This makes them a popular choice among those seeking natural remedies for various health concerns.
Health Benefits
Garlic tablets are explored for their support in cardiovascular health. Research suggests that consuming garlic can modestly reduce high blood pressure, with studies showing a decrease in systolic blood pressure by 7-9 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 4-6 mmHg in individuals with elevated readings. Garlic may also help lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in those with high cholesterol. However, garlic does not significantly raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol or decrease triglyceride levels.
Garlic is also recognized for its antioxidant properties. It contains compounds like flavonoids and sulfur compounds that help neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage. This protection may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support overall well-being. It also supports the immune system, with some studies suggesting it may reduce the severity and duration of common cold and flu-like symptoms due to its antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
Garlic exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate inflammation in the body, as chronic inflammation contributes to various health conditions. Evidence indicates that garlic powder tablets might improve pain associated with endometriosis and could slow the hardening of arteries. It may also slightly reduce pre-meal blood sugar levels in individuals with or without diabetes, especially when taken for at least three months.
Key Compounds and Forms
The beneficial actions of garlic are attributed to its sulfur-containing compounds, particularly allicin. When fresh garlic is crushed or chopped, an enzyme called alliinase converts alliin into allicin, responsible for garlic’s characteristic odor and many of its biological effects. Allicin is an unstable compound that quickly breaks down into other sulfur compounds.
Garlic tablets come in several forms, each delivering these compounds differently. Aged garlic extract (AGE) is produced by soaking sliced garlic in an alcohol-water solution for an extended period, converting unstable sulfur compounds into more stable, odorless ones, such as S-allyl-cysteine (SAC). Garlic oil supplements typically contain diallyl disulfide, while garlic powder tablets are made from dried and ground garlic, preserving allicin precursors. Deodorized forms often reduce allicin content, potentially altering effects. The stability and bioavailability of the active compounds can vary significantly between these different preparations.
Important Considerations for Use
When considering garlic tablets, consult a healthcare professional for dosage recommendations, as guidelines may vary. Dosages often range from 300 mg to 1,000 mg of garlic powder extract daily, sometimes split. Since dietary supplements are not regulated like medications by agencies such as the FDA, the purity and strength of products can vary, and they may contain ingredients not listed on the label.
Side effects of oral garlic consumption include breath and body odor, abdominal pain, flatulence, and nausea. Allergic reactions to garlic are also possible. Garlic supplements can interact with medications. Garlic can lower blood pressure, so taking it with antihypertensive drugs might cause blood pressure to drop too low.
Garlic supplements may also increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to inform healthcare providers if you are taking them, especially before surgery or other procedures. Individuals taking blood thinners or other medications that prevent blood clots should exercise caution. Specific populations should also be cautious or avoid garlic tablets, including pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with bleeding disorders, or people with diabetes, as garlic might affect blood sugar and require dietary adjustments.