Health properties of Garlic in Ayurveda

With the extension of the lockdown till May 3, people are forced to stay at home for two more weeks.  There are some very helpful Ayurvedic home remedies which could be useful in maintaining health during this period. Here, we go for the health properties of Garlic which is known as ‘Lashunam’ in Ayurveda and its scientific name is allium sativum.

More than a nutriment, Garlic is considered in Ayurveda as a vital elixir.

During this period of Covid-19 pandemic, we here look at Garlic’s immuno modulatory effect first. There are many studies that proved the antibacterial, antifungal, protozoal and antiviral properties of Garlic and the antibacterial property is due to the presence of allicin and its sulfhydryl modifying activity.

But, it is the antiviral property that can be well utilized in this time of Coronavirus outbreak and there are many studies which underlines Garlic’s antiviral effects against many viruses.

Garlic elixir for viral fever

Using Garlic, there is an application in Ashtanga Hrudayam, one of the authentic texts of Ayurveda in Sanskrit, to treat severe flue and the Shloka says “pratham thailam lashunam…”

How to prepare:

After peeling, heat one aril of Garlic in a tablespoon of gingili oil in lower temperature and when it becomes brown coloured, remove it from the flames. After getting colder, one can consume this Garlic elixir in the morning before breakfast. This is found to be very effective in treating viral fevers.  However, those who suffer from gastritis, ulcer, menstrual problems or bleeding should seek advice from the doctor before consuming it.

Other benefits:

• In Ayurveda, there are some guidelines to use Garlic and Ayurveda practitioners follow these guidelines while using this for neurological conditions.
• Garlic Milk one of the concoctions in Ayurveda is a popular medicine.
• Garlic is very effective in the conditions like diabetics, hypertension and it reduces Triglycerides.
• Garlic prevents atherosclerosis, thus helpful in treating cardio vascular diseases.
• Garlic is also effective in curing helminthiassis and digestive conditions. Courtesy: Dr.  SHOBU