Natural Medical SolutionsGarlic is a plant used in food and medicine for many years. People use it as a supplement for heart health and other needs. It is not approved by the FDA before it is sold.
What is garlic?
Garlic is a plant grown all over the world. People have used it for centuries to treat many health issues. Today, it is sold as a supplement for heart and immune health.
The FDA does not approve supplements like garlic before they are sold. Makers must ensure their products are safe. You should always talk to your doctor about any supplements you use.
What are the benefits of garlic?
Garlic supplements may help lower cholesterol levels in some people. They might also lower blood pressure by a small amount. Some studies show they can lower blood sugar in people with diabetes.
There is little proof that garlic boosts the immune system. Research on this topic is very limited and weak. Garlic does not seem to lower the risk of stomach cancer.
What are the side effects of garlic?
Garlic taken by mouth can cause bad breath and body odor. Other common side effects include stomach pain, gas, and nausea. Some people may have an allergic reaction to it.
Raw garlic can cause severe skin irritation or chemical burns if applied to the skin. Do not use raw garlic on your skin. Always tell your doctor if you plan to take garlic supplements.
How much garlic should you take?
There is no standard dose for garlic supplements. Research studies have used garlic safely for up to seven years. You should ask your doctor what amount is right for your needs.
Who should not take garlic?
Garlic may not be safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This applies to amounts larger than what you find in food. Talk to your doctor before using it in these cases.
Garlic can increase your risk of bleeding. This is very important if you have surgery planned. Always tell your medical team about any herbs you take.
Does garlic interact with any medications?
Garlic can interact with certain medicines in harmful ways. It may affect how your body handles blood clotting. This is a concern if you take blood thinners or aspirin.
Always talk to your doctor before you start a new supplement. They can check if garlic is safe with your current medicines. Never ignore this step for your own safety.
Does Garlic interact with any medications?
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking garlic if you take any prescription medicine. The list below is not complete.
Garlic may increase your risk of bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking it if you use these medicines.
Garlic can affect bleeding. Using it with aspirin may increase this risk. Check with your doctor first.
Common questions about garlic
Can garlic lower my cholesterol?
Is it safe to put raw garlic on my skin?
Does garlic help with the cold or flu?
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Where this information comes from
Written from NCCIH, a public-domain resource from the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Information retrieved 2026-08-21.
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