Garlic [allium sativum] a review of controlled studies

ABSTRACT

Garlic has been claimed to be effective, without serious untoward effects, against a variety of diseases. Most studies on garlic have been primarily in the fields of cardiovascular and cancer research. In cardiovascular studies, the cardioprotective effects of garlic are related to its antiatherogenic [by lowering plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations] and anti-thrombogenic activities [by inhibiting platelet aggregation]. In addition, the vasodilatory effect and antioxidant properties of some compounds present in the garlic extract contributes to cardioprotection. Anti-cancer effects of garlic and its constitutes have been widely investigated in vitro and in vivo. Epidemiological studies also suggest the significant role of garlic as a potent antitumour and anticarcinogenic substance