Support Your Immune System: Garlic

Garlic has long been the go-to herb of cooks and health advisers for its health benefits. Garlic contains organosulfur compounds that research suggests may help stimulate white blood cells (your body's defense cells) and have been studied for antioxidant properties.

Can't deal with the smell or the digestive consequences of raw garlic? You are not alone! Fortunately, for anyone asking how to improve their immune system with a natural boost, an odor-controlled garlic extract makes an easy support supplement.

When choosing an immune system supplement, you should also look for a high allicin content. Allicin is a powerful compound in garlic that is released when it is crushed. Allicin has been studied for antibiotic and antifungal properties, and garlic preparations have a long history in folk medicine for skin concerns such as athlete's foot. Dosage varies according to individual needs, but 500mg of garlic is great for supporting your immune system.

The Ancient Bulb People Reached For

People have reached for garlic when they were feeling low for a very long time. It was used by traditional medicine in many cultures, even though no one knew how or why it worked. People still ask about garlic at our counter for its immunity-boosting properties. The myths sparked the curiosity. The research is catching up now.

Garlic and Your White Blood Cells

Two other types of white blood cells, natural killer (NK) cells and T cells, are also vital to immune defense. When researchers looked at the effect of aged garlic extract on the activity of these cells in a 90-day study of about 120 healthy adults, aged garlic was significantly more effective than placebo in promoting NK cell and T cell proliferation. People in the extract group also experienced milder cold symptoms. Although the study was small, the results are promising enough to monitor the research as it continues.

The Compounds Behind Garlic's Reputation

A whole clove holds a compound called alliin and an enzyme called alliinase, kept apart until you crush or chop it. Bring them together and you get allicin, the sharp-smelling compound that many garlic immune system booster products are standardized for. Allicin is unstable. It quickly breaks down into other sulfur compounds such as ajoene. Aged garlic extract is a different form, rich in S-allyl cysteine, a more stable compound with far less odor.

Fresh Cloves Versus Garlic Supplements

Cooking with fresh garlic is a great practice, but heat does destroy the allicin. To avoid that, many people add the garlic at the very end of cooking, or crush/mince the cloves and allow them to sit for several minutes before adding heat. If you would rather not eat the garlic, there are supplements for boosting immune system support. These include standardized powder tablets, aged garlic extract, and oils. Look on the label for the form of the supplement and the amount of allicin. Remember: garlic may increase bleeding risk and can interact with some medications, including blood thinners. Always check with your pharmacist or practitioner before you start, particularly before surgery.

Other Natural Ways to Support Immune Function

Garlic is only part of the overall strategy. If you’re interested in boosting your immune system naturally, focus on the fundamentals. Studies of dietary approaches to health and immune function emphasize eating a diverse selection of foods with sufficient protein, produce, and micronutrients. Some research has looked at fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut and their impact on immune function. Combine all that with consistent sleep habits, daily exercise, and healthy coping skills, and you have the kind of regimen your body depends upon. At Village Green Apothecary, we're happy to help you build an immune plan tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does garlic increase white blood cells?

Some studies suggest that garlic might affect the activity of some types of white blood cells. In one study, aged garlic extract was linked with more growth (proliferation) of natural killer cells and some types of T cells than a placebo was. This is not the same thing as an increase in the total number of white blood cells, so if you are concerned about your counts, ask your doctor.

Does garlic boost the immune system?

Garlic may help support normal immune function, and early studies are encouraging. One trial found fewer colds in people taking an allicin-containing supplement. Reviewers say that one trial isn't enough to draw firm conclusions. We think of garlic as a helpful daily habit, not a guarantee.

How strengthen the immune system?

Begin with basic healthy habits, such as plenty of consistent sleep, a rainbow of nutritious meals with sufficient protein, exercise, and managing stress effectively. Incorporate foods such as garlic and fermented veggies for added support. If you're considering an immune system support supplement, ask us at Village Green and we'll help you choose one that fits your health history.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.