Garlic is Sold by the Head

Who knew boosting your immunity could be as simple as eating more garlic? According to one study involving 41,000 women between the ages of 55 and 69, those who routinely ate garlic, fruits and vegetables had a 35% lower colon cancer risk.

Research has shown that garlic oil works as an anti-inflammatory. If you have sore and inflamed joints or muscles, rub them with garlic oil. The Arthritis Foundation even recommends it to help prevent cartilage damage from arthritis.

Research also indicates that garlic can have a positive impact on your arteries and blood pressure.

Researchers believe red blood cells turn the sulfur in garlic into hydrogen sulfide gas. That expands our blood vessels, making it easier to regulate blood pressure.

Before putting your blood pressure medication away, though, consult your doctor to see if adding more garlic to your diet could be beneficial for you.

Garlic’s antibacterial properties and antioxidants can clear up your skin by killing acne-causing bacteria. One study shows rubbing raw garlic over pimples can clear them away.

Be aware, though, that garlic could cause a burning sensation on your skin. Consult your dermatologist first before trying this technique, especially if you’re using any other skin care products.

Those same antibacterial properties in fresh garlic can kill the bacteria that lead to food poisoning, including Salmonella and E.coli. Don’t use garlic as a substitute for proper food sanitation and food handling, though.

Garlic also fights fungus. If you have athlete’s foot, soak your feet in garlic water or rub raw garlic on your feet to attack the itch-causing fungus.