Latin name –Allium Sativum
Uses – helpful for respiratory & urinary tract infections as well as high blood pressure
Country of origin – originates from South West Siberia, but can now be found world wide
Scent – A strong distinctive scent not very pleasant.
History –
It is reported that Garlic was grown in the hanging gardens of Babylon and it was considered as an herb of empowerment so it was given to Roman soldiers before the battle. The traditional European fishermen used to wear garlands made with Garlic cloves to guard themselves from sickness and evil spirits.
Garlic was also said to have been used as a ‘performance uplifting’ agent and was given to the Olympic athletes in primordial Greece. It is also said that Garlic was given during the construction of the Pyramids as well also being used in Nepal, Middle East and eastern parts of Asia for treating tuberculosis, bronchitis, rheumatism, fever, flatulence, colic, liver problems, intestinal worms, hypertension and digestive problems
More recently it was used in the First World War to prevent gangrene & sepsis.
Method of extraction – Steam from the crushed bulbs
Constituents – Allicin, allylpropyl, disulphide, diallyl, disulphide, diallyl trisulphide,citral, gernaniol, linalool, phellandrene.
Properties – Amoebicidal,anthelmintic, antibiotic, antitoxic, antitumour, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, cholagogue, hypocholesterolemic, depuractive, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, fungicidal, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, insecticidal, larvicidal, promotes leucocytosis, stomachic, tonic.
Contraindications – Occasionally has been known to cause stomach irritation
General –
Understandably not widely used in Aromatherapy due to its unpleasant scent, it does have some useful properties, however probably best blended with other oils.
It can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation , helping with joint tooth & headache pain. Also reported to help with respiratory conditions like asthma as well as skin conditions like dandruff & athletes foot.
Blends well with Rosemary, Peppermint, Lemon, Bergamot, Thyme sweet, Oregano, Marjoram Sweet
Safety - - DILUTE TO 5% OR LESS IN A CARRIER OIL BEFORE SKIN APPLICATION. KEEP OUT OF EYES. DO NOT SWALLOW
