Garlic Immune Booster
Powerful antimicrobial defense
Strong evidenceHerbs in this remedy
About this remedy
Garlic is one of the most researched medicinal foods. Allicin, released when garlic is crushed, has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. A Cochrane review found daily garlic supplementation reduced cold incidence by 63%. Garlic provides vitamin C, vitamin B6 (essential for immune cell production), manganese, and selenium — a trace mineral critical for antioxidant defense. It also enhances natural killer cell activity and stimulates macrophage function.
Preparation
Crush 2–3 fresh garlic cloves and let sit 10 minutes (this activates allicin). Mix into honey or warm water with lemon. Raw garlic is most potent; cooking reduces allicin content.
Dosage
2–3 fresh cloves daily, or 600–1200 mg aged garlic extract
Cautions
May interact with blood thinners (warfarin) and HIV medications. Discontinue 7–10 days before surgery. Can cause GI upset in sensitive individuals.
Research
Lissiman et al., Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2014