King Saud University researchers have investigated garlic extract and allicin for potential to prevent inflammation and parasitic infection schistosomiasis. Liver fibrotic markers in mice infected with the parasite treated with either garlic, allicin were assessed with results being compared to mice treated with the drug praziquantel, and pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression was also evaluated; after a day the mice were sacrificed to collect the liver and intestine for further analysis.
Mice treated with both allicin and garlic extract were found to have had declines in parasite population, and reduced biomarkers for liver fibrosis and pro-inflammatory cytokines. It was noted the results were comparable to praziquantel without the harmful side effects. Garlic and allicin were concluded by the researchers to be able to treat schistosomiasis due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties.
When garlic is cut or pressed cells get broken that release alliinase enzymes chemically changing the inherent alliin into allicin. Allicin is responsible for garlic’s smell and some of the medicinal properties which may help to protect against high cholesterol, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and diabetes among others.
100 grams of garlic may provide up to 150 calories, 33 grams of carbs, and 6.36 grams of protein, as well as containing various vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, folate, vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc.
