Garlic, A Tasty Treat

Garlic, (Allium Sativum) is the perfect example of a plant that has numerous health benefits. While traditional medicines have long used garlic as part of their work, modern science has backed up many of these traditional claims. But what are some of the benefits of using garlic?

Garlic has traditionally been used for a wide range of diseases. Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, suggested consumption of garlic to fight off parasites, digestive problems, and breathing problems. Even modern medicine has used garlic, suggesting it for use in fighting off Tuberculosis up until the turn of the century.

Nowadays, though, garlic's benefits are becoming appreciated again. Studies have shown powerful antiviral and antibiotic properties, as well as a plethora of specific health benefits. Have a cold? Garlic prevents it, as well as lessens the time you spend sick. Ulcers? Garlic fights the leading cause of ulcers, a type of bacteria. Cholesterol? Garlic reduces it. What about blood pressure? Again, consuming plenty of garlic will help lower it. Garlic even helps regulate blood sugar levels- a great thing for anyone who is diabetic or looking to eat healthier.

With all of these benefits, why not grow some garlic in your back yard? Garlic is one of the easiest plants you could hope to grow. It is fairly cold-resistant, it can be planted using seeds or the cloves themselves. All you need to do is plant the cloves about 2 inches into the soil, keep it well drained, and in the sun. While garlic can tolerate the shade, the bulbs will be much larger and much more potent if they receive the full sun.

Throughout the summer, cut the stalks of the plant to keep most of the energy devoted to the bulbs and not the stalk's growth. Once you harvest the bulbs, keep them in a cool, dry place. Beware of mold and insects, which are attracted to bruised bulbs. This can be prevented by being especially careful when handling bulbs that aren't immediately being used.