Garlic: A Powerful Traditional Superfood

Garlic has been valued for thousands of years as both a medicinal herb and culinary ingredient and garlic odour can be an issue for some people. In traditional healing systems around the world, garlic has been used to support immunity, fight infections, and promote cardiovascular health.

In naturopathic nutrition, garlic is often considered a functional food—meaning it provides therapeutic benefits beyond basic nutrition. Garlic contains several biologically active compounds, particularly sulphur-containing compounds such as allicin, which are believed to contribute to many of its health-supporting properties.

Research suggests garlic may support:

• Immune system function
• Cardiovascular health
• Healthy cholesterol levels
• Natural antimicrobial activity
• Antioxidant protection
• Digestive balance

Traditionally, garlic has also been used as a natural remedy for parasites, infections, and respiratory conditions.

Why Garlic Leaves a Strong Odour

While garlic has many health benefits, it is also known for its distinctive smell. This odour is caused by sulphur compounds—particularly allyl methyl sulfide—which are released when garlic is crushed or chopped. These compounds enter the bloodstream and are eventually released through the lungs and skin, which is why garlic breath can linger even after brushing your teeth.

Traditional Health Uses of Garlic

Across many cultures, garlic has been used as a natural medicine. Some traditional applications include:

Supporting Immunity

Garlic has long been used during cold and flu season due to its antimicrobial and immune-supporting properties.

Heart and Circulatory Health

Traditional herbal medicine often recommends garlic to support healthy circulation and blood pressure.

Digestive Health

Garlic may help stimulate digestive secretions and support the balance of healthy gut bacteria.

Natural Antimicrobial Support

Garlic has historically been used as a natural remedy for bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

In naturopathic practice, garlic is often included in diets designed to support detoxification and reduce inflammation.

Old Wives’ Tales and Traditional Garlic Remedies

Garlic has inspired many fascinating traditional remedies and folk beliefs over the centuries.

Some well-known examples include:

• Garlic worn around the neck was believed to ward off illness and infection in medieval Europe.
• During times of plague, garlic was used by healers to help protect against disease.
• In many cultures, garlic was used to protect against evil spirits or bad energy.
• Garlic was traditionally rubbed on the chest to relieve coughs and congestion.
• Some folk remedies recommend raw garlic with honey as a natural immune tonic.

While not all of these practices are scientifically proven, they highlight the long history of garlic as a symbol of protection and healing.

How to Neutralise Garlic Breath Naturally

If you enjoy garlic but want to avoid lingering breath, there are several natural remedies that may help.

1. Chew Fresh Parsley

Parsley contains chlorophyll, which may help neutralise strong odours in the mouth. Chewing a small bunch after a garlic-rich meal is a traditional remedy.

2. Chew Cardamom or Fennel Seeds

These aromatic spices have strong natural oils that can help mask and neutralise garlic odour. They are often used in traditional digestive remedies.

3. Choose Strong Natural Mints

Peppermint mints or gum can help freshen breath. Choosing natural products without artificial flavours or excessive sugar is the healthiest option.

4. Eat Garlic with Other Flavourful Foods

Combining garlic with strongly flavoured foods may reduce its lingering odour. Examples include:

• Tomatoes
• Fish
• Anchovies
• Herbs such as parsley and basil
• Spices like cardamom

5. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brushing teeth, flossing, and using a strong mint mouthwash can help remove garlic particles left in the mouth.

6. Try Tongue Scraping

A tongue scraper may help remove bacteria and food residues that contribute to lingering garlic breath.

7. Drink Lemon Water

The citric acid in lemon may help break down garlic compounds and refresh the palate.

8. Eat Natural Yoghurt

Some research suggests yoghurt may help reduce sulphur compounds responsible for garlic odour while also supporting beneficial oral bacteria.

The Best Way to Use Garlic for Health

To maximise garlic’s potential health benefits:

• Crush or chop garlic and allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes before cooking (this activates beneficial compounds)
• Use fresh garlic rather than heavily processed garlic products
• Include garlic regularly in whole-food meals such as soups, stir-fries, and salads

A Simple Naturopathic Tip

Many naturopaths recommend consuming raw garlic in small amounts for immune support. One traditional method is to mix finely crushed garlic with honey and lemon as a natural tonic during cold and flu season.