GARLIC
allium sativum
Garlic has inspired extraordinary following and affection by many people all over
the world. Garlic is an onion, but is a compound bulb made up of 4 to 15 bulblets or
cloves. The garlic plant closely resembles the onion and seldom produces seeds.
Garlic has been around, it seems, forever. At one time it was thought to possess magical
powers against evil and was used often in spells. The Egyptian slaves ate garlic to give
them strength. Israelites ate garlic before their escape from Egypt and the Romans used it
strengthen themselves before a battle.
Garlic has been prescribed since pre-Biblical times to treat a wide variety of complaints
like headaches, bites, heart problems, tumors, worms, respiratory, disinfectant, earaches
and many, many more.
Garlic contains allicin. This substance is formed when the cloves are crushed and alliin
and the enzyme allinase come together. This is the potent order we smell when it's
crushed. Allicin has been compared to be as effective as one percent (1%) penicillin.
Garlic has been shown to be effective against certain "flu" viruses, fungi,
yeast (like athlete's foot), staph, dysentery, enteritis, high blood pressure, and much
more. Garlic has also been used to rid parasites from the body. Herbalists have also
prescribed garlic to treat various respiratory ailments, by a rubdown of garlic and lard
on the back and chest of the patient. The body would rapidly absorb the garlic, which
would help open the lungs and bronchial tubes. Garlic has also been shown to help prevent
blood clotting, reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. Some herbalists have
used garlic to treat colic, kidney and bladder ailments, toothaches, and snakebites.
Garlic has been widely used in cooking. It has been used on just about every type of food
except desserts. Use garlic to butter, bread, salads, meats, vegetables, vinegars, tomato
dishes, cheeses, stews, soups, etc. Experiment with garlic on whatever you're cooking
tonight!
Garlic makes a wonderful addition to that all-important culinary herb garden. Planted in
the early spring, garlic can be harvested the following fall. Cut the flower stalks back
when they start to appear, usually in early summer. This makes for larger bulbs. When the
tops begin to die back,
knock them down and don't water for a few days. Lift out the plants and place on a screen
in the shade for a few days. Shake the dirt free. Store as you would onions. |
The information provided is
for educational purposes only and should not be used to prescribe, diagnose, treat or cure
any illnesses or diseases or as a substitute for professional healthcare. If you have a
serious health problem, we strongly recommend that you consult a competent healthcare
provider.
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