Garlic
Garlic is referenced in the Holy Quran due to its numerous health benefits. As mentioned in the verse: “So pray to your Lord to produce for us from what the earth grows, from its herbs, its cucumbers, its garlic, its lentils, and its onions.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 61). Garlic is considered a fundamental food source for disease prevention and for fortifying the body against various health risks. However, it can be a double-edged sword; when used moderately and properly, it provides significant health benefits, but improper use may lead to serious health issues. Garlic is rich in several essential nutrients necessary for building a healthy body, including vitamins, antioxidants, iron, carbohydrates, and calcium.
Adverse Effects of Garlic on the Stomach
Despite its considerable health advantages, excessive consumption of garlic can irritate the stomach and exacerbate existing ulcers. It may also lead to gastrointestinal disturbances such as indigestion and constipation, which can result in skin rashes, elevated temperatures, and headaches, as well as acute inflammation of the stomach lining. Individuals experiencing gastrointestinal issues are advised to use garlic in its medicinal form or cooked, as this helps eliminate the irritating compounds that could worsen their conditions.
Benefits of Garlic
Garlic boasts a variety of health benefits, including:
- Strengthening the immune system and reducing the risk of cancer due to its antioxidant properties that inhibit cancer cell proliferation.
- Combatting bacteria and viruses, eliminating intestinal worms and parasites, and addressing respiratory illnesses such as influenza, colds, and coughs.
- Protecting against blood clots and cardiovascular disease, dilating blood vessels, and preventing the formation of thromboxane responsible for platelet aggregation. It also helps regulate blood pressure and heart rhythms by promoting the secretion of adenosine while reducing harmful cholesterol levels in the body.
- Fighting infectious diseases due to its allicin content that inhibits bacterial enzymes, making garlic an effective treatment for parasitic infections affecting the digestive system.
- Battling malaria, treating wounds and burns, alleviating rheumatism, and aiding in detoxification.
- Reducing acne and dark spots by applying cooked garlic directly to the skin, as it helps eradicate the bacteria responsible for pimples and enhances skin health, giving it a vibrant and strong appearance.
- Addressing kidney disorders and aiding in the elimination of urinary tract stones by increasing urine production.
Note: The odor of garlic can linger in the mouth for an extended period. To mitigate this smell, chewing on a sprig of parsley or mint can be effective.