Garlic oil: know the benefits of this product and how to use it correctly

Currently, the search for natural products that bring benefits to beauty and health has become a trend, using compounds taken from nature and exploring all their beneficial potential.

As a beautiful example of this practice, it is possible to mention garlic oil, scientifically known as Allium sativum, which contains a substance called allicin, an active ingredient that guarantees its characteristic aroma and has great antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Known for providing varied benefits for both health and beauty, it can be ingested or even applied through topical use in the place that needs treatment.

Garlic itself can be considered a powerful natural antibiotic. Many studies indicate Asia as the probable origin of this plant, with more than 6,000 years of history, seasoning meals and being used in naturopathy.

9 health benefits of garlic oil

According to nutritionist Andrea Marim, it is common to describe the action of garlic oil as a treatment for the body that acts from the inside out. In the case of its topical use, it is able to help fight bacteria that cause acne, for example. Check out some of the benefits of garlic oil according to the professional information:

1. Prevents cardiovascular diseases: due to the high doses of allicin, this oil contributes to good cardiovascular functioning, preventing heart diseases such as atherosclerosis, vascular accidents and even heart attack.

2. Fights aging: “It has compounds called sulfur, zinc and selenium, which help in the elimination of toxins, with an advantageous antioxidant action, fighting premature aging”, he reveals.

3. Improvement of cognitive capacity: garlic has adenosine, a substance capable of stimulating the activity of neurons, improving the cognitive capacity of those who consume it.

4. Helps with weight control: according to the nutritionist, this oil can help with weight control, as it has a regulatory action on the formation of adipose (fat) cells. Its anti-inflammatory action has an inhibitory response in the conversion of calories into new fat cells.

5. Ensures more beautiful and healthier hair: its action seeks to promote growth, in addition to guaranteeing a smoother texture to the hair. Already common diseases to the scalp are avoided, due to the presence of elements such as vitamin E, sulfur, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and vitamin B1, making the hair strands stronger.

6. Helps in the fight against cancer: as it has several vitamins and minerals, this oil strengthens the immune system. The action of antioxidants is once again present in the fight against toxins and free radicals, helping to combat the disease.

7. Facilitates diabetes control: “If consumed on an empty stomach, it has the ability to increase the release of insulin in the blood, regulating blood glucose in people with diabetes”, highlights Andrea.

8. Supporting cholesterol regulation: when consuming this oil, cholesterol levels tend to balance, increasing HDL, known as good cholesterol, and reducing LDL, the bad cholesterol.

9. Ensures healthier skin: due to its antibacterial action, diseases such as ringworm and eczema can heal faster with the use of this resource. In the case of acne, topical application provides healing and can even soften the scars left on the skin.

How to use garlic oil

This oil is extracted from crushed garlic through the process of steam distillation, in a highly concentrated form, or by immersing minced garlic in a vegetable oil of your choice, configuring a less concentrated version. Check out other options for using this oil:

In capsules: “Found in health food stores. For a more correct dosage, the search for professional guidance is indicated”, emphasizes the nutritionist. It is normally used in a daily intake, with one capsule before lunch and another before dinner.

In industrialized creams: according to Andrea, “products manufactured by the cosmetics industry aimed at treating acne also have this oil in their composition”, requiring the follow-up of a dermatologist for the correct indication.

As an infusion: despite having a smaller amount of its active principle, it also has its benefits. It can be prepared with hot vegetable oil, ideal for seasoning meals and salads, or with cold oil, for medicinal purposes.

In all cases, it is necessary to reinforce the importance of a medical indication so that the use is appropriate for your needs and the effects are positive.

How to make your homemade garlic oil

Although you can buy ready-made garlic oil, you can still easily make your own version at home. Check out the recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 head of ripe garlic (white-yellowish in color)
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Preparation mode

If it’s the cold option, just make a mixture of olive oil with the minced garlic, letting it rest for two days before using it. In the case of the hot option, it is necessary to heat the oil in a pan over low heat, add the peeled garlic until golden and then strain the garlic, separating only the oil. It should be stored in the fridge, in a glass bottle.

Side effects and contraindications

According to the professional, garlic oil has no side effects, however, if consumed in excess, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and malaise, and it is recommended to seek medical attention in these cases.

One of its few contraindications would be for breastfeeding women, as it can change the taste of breast milk, and for children up to 3 years old.

One of the professional’s alerts is the relationship of garlic oil with botulism. The most accepted explanation for this relationship is the fact that the spores of bacteria that cause botulism normally settle on garlic and, if it is covered with oil, there will be no oxygen present, favoring the harmful action of such bacteria. . Therefore, it is recommended to consume garlic oil immediately after its preparation, in addition to always storing it under refrigeration.

With great antibacterial power, ability to strengthen the immune system and ease of preparation or purchase, garlic oil becomes an adjuvant in the search for a better quality of life. Experience its benefits and prove its effectiveness!

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.