Free Garlic Home Remedies

Garlic has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for many years. Garlic, botanically known as Allium sativum, is grown in mild climates, and is a seasonal plant. Garlic is mostly produced in China, with India being the next leading producer. The garlic plant can be eaten whole, including the leaves and the stems, but the cloves are the most popular part of the plant.

Blood Pressure

• Eat one clove of raw garlic each day to help reduce high blood pressure. Be aware that garlic can thin the blood, so consult your physician before consuming garlic (see Resources).

Flu or Cold

• When garlic is crushed or chewed, allicin, an antiobiotic and antifungal compound found in garlic, is released. Garlic can be used at first sign of a cold or flu to kill the virus. Crush or chew two cloves of raw garlic daily. To prevent "garlic breath," eat some fresh parsley or chew on a coffee bean.

Herpes

• Garlic can be used to treat the HSV-1 and HSV-2 virus (herpes simplex virus). Garlic, when crushed and applied to the affected area, can stop the outbreak or promote faster healing. At the first sign of an outbreak, apply a small piece of garlic for five to 10 minutes.

Acne

• Acne can be treated with garlic if it is used regularly. Clean the acne area first, then slice or crush a clove of garlic and rub it over the affected area. Leave it on for about 15 to 20 minutes, then use a facial cleanser to wash the face, then rinse with cool water.

Cataracts

• Garlic and be used to treat cataracts. Eating two cloves of raw garlic each day will help to clear the crystalline lens of the eyes and help improve eyesight (see Resources).