Garlic, onions and cardiovascular risk factors. A review of the evidence from human experiments with emphasis on commercially available preparations [see comments]

Abstract

1. Claims for beneficial effects on cholesterol levels, fibrinolytic activity, and platelet aggregation are attributed both to fresh garlic and onions (or their extracts) and to commercially available preparations. 2. Regarding fresh garlic, the claims have been confirmed, but so far only at very high dosages. 3. For onions and commercially available supplements contradictory results have been reported. 4. All published trials showed severe methodological shortcomings. Some trials were not randomized and/or not blinded whilst this was possible, and in only one of every three studies more than 25 patients participated in each treatment group. In no trial was prognostic comparability of the treatment and the control groups ascertained. At the moment there is inadequate scientific justification for garlic supplementation.

The effect of antioxidant properties of aqueous garlic extract and Nigella sativa as anti-schistosomiasis agents in mice

“…In the past few years, it has been found in certain models that garlic preparations including aged garlic prevented cardiovascular diseases 20 , liver damage 27 , and aging 26 which are considered to be associated with oxygen radical and lipid peroxidation. The aqueous garlic extracts (AGE) 28 and some garlic constituents 32 have been widely documented in vivo 19 and in vitro 31 .…”

The industrial potential of herbs and spices – a mini review

“…Dietary therapy is the fi rst step in the treatment of cardiac problems (Rahman, 2001). Garlic and onion have been used for millenia in the traditional medical practices of many cultures to treat cardiovascular disease and other disorders (Ali et al, 1999;Banerjee et al, 2002;Bordia et al, 1998;Davison et al, 2012;Kendler, 1987;Kleijnen et al, 1989;Rahman, 2001). Both Allium species, their extracts, and the chemical constituents of these plants have been investigated for combatting cardiovascular disease risk factors (hyperlipidemia, hypertension and hyperglycemia) and suspected risk factors (platelet aggregation and blood fi brinolytic activity) (Kendler, 1987).…”

Effect of Allium sativum on the Motility and Acetylcholinesterase of Haemonchus contortus

“…It has traditional dietary and medicinal applications as an anti-infective agent [14]. A. sativum is an antioxidant [15], antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-parasitic [16,17] antihypertensive [18], anthelmintic [19] and antidiabetic agent [20]. In veterinary practice, A. sativum is used for promotion of wound healing and treatment of infected wounds in calves [21].…”