Organic Garlic Supplements: Benefits, Side Effects, Where to Buy

Garlic: one of the first seasonings present in the human diet and to this day one of the most popular. This pungent herb is also remarkably nutritious, packed with trace minerals like copper, iron, zinc, and more. But that’s not all! Due to the number of active phytochemical compounds present in this humble herb, organic garlic supplements are an increasingly popular, all-natural option for immune support, heart health, and more. Keep reading to learn the benefits of organic garlic supplements, including side effects and where to buy. 

Why supplement garlic?

Nutrient-dense, low-calorie, and packed with antioxidants, adding garlic to your supplement stack is a great choice to boost heart health, support immune function, and fight free radical damage. 

Garlic is a member of the allium family, and closely related to other alliums including onions, shallots, and chives. With potent antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties, garlic has been a beloved dietary and medicinal staple for thousands of years. The active compounds present in garlic include: allicin, alliin, ajoenes, vinyldithiins, and various flavonoids (a class of common, yet powerful antioxidants). 

Allicin, the sulfur-containing compound responsible for garlic’s pungent taste and smell, is perhaps the most famous of garlic’s active phytochemicals. Allicin is formed when garlic is crushed or chopped, triggering the enzyme alliinase to convert alliin. Studies show that allicin has a number of health benefits including lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, cancer prevention, and a stronger immune system. 

In addition to adding more nutrients to your diet, garlic supplements can help boost your garlic intake without the infamous smell, and can be a great option for individuals who may not like the taste of garlic. 

Organic Garlic Supplement Benefits

Boosts Heart Health

Studies show garlic can reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. In one 2020 study, garlic supplements were able to significantly reduce blood pressure in subjects with a history of hypertension. Ultimately, researchers predicted a 16%-40% reduction in cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke. In some cases, garlic may be just as effective as blood pressure medications (but with fewer side effects).

Another study, conducted in 2016, found that supplementing garlic for two months led to a 10% decrease in bad LDL cholesterol.

Improves Immunity

Garlic guards against the common cold and reduces the risk of certain cancers. One study, focused on the effects of aged garlic extract (AGE), found that individuals who supplemented garlic for three months during cold and flu season missed fewer days of school or work and experienced less severe symptoms. This is perhaps due to the broad-spectrum antibiotic, anti-viral, and antimicrobial properties of garlic’s main active component, allicin, which has been shown to kill both gram negative and gram positive bacteria as well as boost the effects of traditional antibiotic medications. 

Colon, esophageal, pancreatic, breast, and prostate cancers, among others, have been shown to be less prevalent among individuals who consume or supplement garlic. In fact, in one study conducted among women age 50 - 69, individuals who regularly consumed garlic, fruits, and vegetables saw their risk of colon cancer drop by a whopping 35%.

Soothes oxidative stress 

Garlic is rich in antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which guard against free radical damage and oxidative stress. Over time, oxidative stress and inflammation can cause a number of chronic diseases, including Alzheimer’s and arthritis. Initial studies into the neuroprotective properties of garlic have been promising, although more research is needed. 

Organic Garlic Supplement Side Effects

Common side effects of garlic supplements include: 

• Nausea 
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Bad Breath
• Bloating
• Gas
• Hives 
• Heartburn
• Body Odor
• Bleeding 

In some cases, individuals may experience a severe allergic reaction leading to trouble breathing and anaphylaxis. Avoid garlic supplements if you are allergic to any members of the lily family, including tulips, hyacinth, onions, leeks, chives, or shallots. Additionally, garlic may interfere with normal blood clotting and should not be taken with any anticoagulants. Always consult with your doctor before beginning a new supplement or medication. 

Best Organic Garlic Supplements

The best garlic supplements are 100% organic, filler- and additive- free. While it’s best to add garlic to your diet, garlic supplements can help boost your intake even further.

Looking for a healthy, organic garlic supplement? Try MediHerb Garlic Forte. MediHerb Garlic Forte contains 300mg of potent, organic garlic, carefully manufactured to preserve the benefits of fresh garlic. You can buy it here in our shop.