In addition to adding flavor to various dishes, garlic is one of the most powerful herbal medicines today. Studies show that it relieves cold and flu symptoms and can help prevent cardiovascular disease.
Thinking about it, garlic capsules appeared, a food supplement that brings the properties in a concentrated way for consumption.
They are a good way to include the nutrients of garlic in your routine, especially for those who don’t like the taste or smell characteristic of the seasoning.
Contents
What are garlic capsules?
Garlic capsules are a food supplement made from the oil extracted from the plant Allium sativum L. that contains components with the power to act in various systems of our body.
This action occurs due to vitamins , minerals, fibers and organosulfur compounds present in garlic, which enable the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic action in the body.
Garlic capsules, in general, are more concentrated, and as this is indicated to help strengthen the immune system, fight free radicals, treat infections, and can also help the treatment of chronic diseases such as cholesterol and hypertension.
Regarding the assumptions about garlic being beneficial in the treatment of cancer and tumors, studies are underway, but no scientific confirmation yet.
Anyway, it is worth mentioning that the supplement does not replace any medical treatment and that before starting the use of garlic capsules, it is necessary to consult a professional to avoid side effects that may harm your health.
What is the composition?
The garlic capsules are made with oil extracted from the bulb of plants of the Allium genus . Normally, the procedure is done as cold as possible, as high temperatures end up decreasing the nutrients present in the plant.
The most common processes are the steam distillation of garlic, which generates a more concentrated oil, or the immersion of the bulb in vegetable oil (usually soy), which will provide a less concentrated oil, but still with the same properties.
In garlic oil we can find mineral salts (manganese, iron, selenium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium and potassium) and vitamins (A, C, B1 and B6) that provide several benefits to the body.
In addition, there is the presence of a very important sulfur compound, Alicina:
Allicin
Allicin is the active ingredient responsible for the characteristic odor of garlic, which is released when garlic is cut or kneaded.
This principle is able to inhibit the proliferation of bacteria and fungi, stimulate the action of digestive enzymes and expel toxins from the body through the skin.
The marketed garlic capsules must contain 3mg to 5mg of allicin.
Ajoene
Another component that works together with Alicina is Ajoene, which is obtained during the extraction of garlic oil, which helps to fight bacterial infections.
Inulin
Inulin is a very beneficial type of fiber, which acts by regulating transit and intestinal flora, and which also provides better absorption of nutrients, such as calcium and magnesium.
Its consumption can help prevent diseases such as osteoporosis , in addition to helping to reduce bacteria that cause inflammation in the intestine.
What are the benefits of the garlic capsule?
Garlic capsules can provide a number of benefits due to their compounds. In general, adequate consumption of the supplement, along with healthy habits and medical monitoring, can help fight bacteria, fungi and viruses, help prevent cardiovascular disease and improve blood circulation.
Thus, the product can promote:
Anti-inflammatory action
Garlic oil has the ability to decrease inflammations in the body, whether they are infectious or even related to chronic diseases.
In this way, it is possible to use garlic capsules to relieve earaches, sore throats and even chronic pain from sinusitis .
Antioxidant action
The presence of Selenium and Vitamin C in garlic oil makes it have a high antioxidant power, providing the fight against free radicals
This property is excellent for those looking to avoid damage caused by free radicals, related to various diseases.
Increased immunity
The Vitamin C present in the capsule strengthens the immune system, increasing the level of important antibodies to prevent colds and flu.
Some commercialized options even add properties such as vitamin C in order to further strengthen immunity.
May help control cholesterol
Garlic oil is able to stimulate the action of enzymes existing in the liver, helping to decrease the production of fat, consequently helping to control high cholesterol.
Is it good for high blood pressure?
It depends, there are still no studies that prove that garlic capsules have a significant effect on lowering blood pressure.
However, the Alicina present in the supplement can assist in the control of pressure, due to the ability to act as a natural vasodilator, facilitating blood circulation. Thus, it can have effects in reducing high blood pressure .
However, the supplement is not a substitute for any medication or medical treatment, and may be of assistance only if released by the medical team.
Does taking garlic capsules help you lose weight?
Not directly. Although garlic capsules can act as a thermogenic, stimulating the metabolism so that the caloric expenditure is higher, consuming them does not guarantee a significant reduction in body fat, as it is only a supplement.
Thus, maintaining a good diet and exercising regularly is the best way to achieve the desired measures.
How to use garlic oil?
In general, garlic oil in capsules should be used twice a day, before main meals. However, there is variation according to manufacturer or medical guidelines. Regarding topical use, the product can be applied 1 or 2 times a day on the spot.
Regardless of the case (topical or oral use), only use the supplement with a medical or pharmaceutical indication, so that there is guidance on the best way to obtain the benefits.
What are the contraindications?
In general, garlic capsules are contraindicated for children, pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding. People who use blood clotting medications should also not use it.
It is also not recommended for anyone who is allergic to any component of the capsule, so it is always important to make an assessment with a doctor or seek pharmaceutical information for safe use.
Those who use drugs to treat any disease should also pay attention to the components and consult the doctor about the addition of this supplement to the diet.
Brands and prices?
The garlic capsules can be purchased in health food stores, supplement in pharmacies, or online platforms like Remedies Consultation . Prices * vary according to the company in which they are manufactured.
Some options available on the market are:
Bionatus
The packaging of Bionatus garlic oil contains 60 capsules of 2.63mg, with a price around R $ 33. It is recommended to take 2 capsules a day, which can be 10 minutes after a meal.
This product consists of garlic oil (Allium sativum L.) diluted in soy oil.
Unilife
The Unilife garlic capsules can be found in packages of 60, 100 or 150 capsules of 350mg. Average prices are in the range of R $ 30 to R $ 45 for the different packages.
Usage should be 2 capsules a day, usually after the main meals.
Herbarium
The garlic oil capsules in the Herbarium , is available in packs of 45 capsules of 390mg each, its price is $ 24.
It is recommended to consume 2 capsules a day, along with some liquid.
Maxinutri
The Maxinutri garlic capsules , are sold in bottles in the average value of R $ 15, than 60 capsules of 250mg each.
Its use can be from 2 to 4 capsules, during meals, or according to medical advice.
Binutri
This supplement is available in packaging with 60 capsules of 500mg each, which can be consumed (maximum) 3 times a day.
Binutri garlic oil contains soy in its composition and is sold for R $ 24.
* Prices consulted in October 2020. Prices may change.
Caring for food is one of the best practices for maintaining quality of life, and as we can see, garlic capsules are very good for our health.
Want to know more about other supplements to add to your diet? The Healthy Minute has several articles about it.
