
garlic
Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a globally recognized spice, originating from Central Asia, that humans have utilized for culinary and medicinal purposes for thousands of years, with documented use dating back to ancient Egypt. It works in your body and brain through its diverse bioactive sulfur compounds, like allicin and S-allyl-cysteine, and is most known for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular protective, and emerging neuroprotective effects. Numerous studies, including over a thousand in the last decade, indicate that garlic constituents can protect neuronal cells from damage, reduce cardiovascular risk factors linked to dementia, and may improve cognitive functions in certain experimental models.
Table of Contents
Categories & Effectiveness
Brain Health
Brain Antioxidant Shield
7/10Strong evidence of effectiveness
Acetylcholine Support
5/10Moderate evidence of effectiveness
Brain Circulation Boost
4/10Moderate evidence of effectiveness
Neuro-Repair Support
2/10Limited evidence of effectiveness
Cognition
Memory & Recall
4/10Moderate evidence of effectiveness
Learning Speed
3/10Limited evidence of effectiveness
Physical Performance
Blood Sugar Support
6/10Moderate evidence of effectiveness
Fat Metabolism
5/10Moderate evidence of effectiveness
Systemic Health
Cholesterol Management
8/10Strong evidence of effectiveness
Systemic Antioxidant
8/10Strong evidence of effectiveness
Anti-Inflammatory (Systemic)
7/10Strong evidence of effectiveness
Liver Protection
7/10Strong evidence of effectiveness
Dosage & Side Effects
Recommended Dosage
Potential Side Effects
Bioavailability & Half-Life
Interactions & Stacks
Benefits by Use Case
Neuroprotection & Dementia Risk Reduction
Garlic helps mitigate cardiovascular risk factors like high cholesterol and LDL oxidation, which are linked to dementia, and its antioxidant properties protect neurons. Benefits are generally preventative and long-term, with direct cognitive improvement in humans needing more research.
Cardiovascular Health Support
Garlic can improve cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol, reducing blood pressure, inhibiting platelet aggregation, and improving arterial elasticity. Effects are often observed with consistent use over several weeks to months, but individual results vary.
Systemic Anti-inflammatory Action
Garlic exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine expression and inhibiting pathways like NF-κB, contributing to overall health. These benefits are broad and support various bodily systems, though specific timelines for noticeable effects can vary.
Antioxidant Defense Boost
Garlic enhances the body's antioxidant capacity by scavenging reactive oxygen species and boosting endogenous antioxidant enzymes like SOD and catalase. This protection against oxidative stress is crucial for cellular health, with benefits accumulating over time.
Immune System Modulation
Garlic and its compounds like allicin can enhance immune cell activity and exhibit antimicrobial properties. Regular intake may support immune function, though it's not a substitute for conventional treatments for infections.