It is not surprising that the ancients
ascribed many properties to the very strong smelling garlic.
It was alluded to drive away evil spirits, protect against
werewolves and vampires, protect from evil and to bring good
luck. In 1,500 BC, the Egyptians used garlic to treat 22
different conditions. The ancient Greeks credited it for
repelling scorpions and treating dog bites.
Louis Pasteur credited garlic as an
effective germicide, and during WW1 it was used for treating
wounds. It has been found that a compound called allicin
contained in garlic is effective against 23 types of
bacteria. Garlic has long been used to treat high blood
pressure and as a prevention of strokes.
Garlic is rich in vitamins B6 and C, manganese, and other
minerals.
