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Botanical

Garlic

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a bulb of the onion family, used as food and in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Crushing it releases allicin.

Also listed as Garlic Extract, Allium sativum, Garlic Bulb, Garlic Powder

Bleeding risk comes first

Garlic supplements may increase bleeding risk. NCCIH advises discussing use with a clinician, especially before surgery or when taking anticoagulants or aspirin. Medicines matter even when the ingredient is a familiar food. 1

Common effects and special situations

Breath or body odor, abdominal pain, gas and nausea can occur; allergic reactions are also possible. Amounts above normal food use may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Fresh raw garlic applied to skin can cause chemical burns, so oral-use evidence does not justify a homemade skin treatment. 1

For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.

Sources