Allicin is the compound that gives onions and garlic that
potent, savory punch. It is especially concentrated in garlic, which is why the
unassuming white root is a darling among superfoods. Here are some other fun
facts about allicin.
Did you know that allicin can help fight off mosquitoes?
Studies conducted around the world have found that allicin
may be able to ward off mosquitoes. One study had participants spread a
combination of garlic oil and beeswax on their bodies. Those who used the
spread experienced few, if any, mosquito bites for eight hours.
In another study, allicin was mixed with water and presented
to mosquitoes. The little pests refused to use the water to lay eggs. Though
more verification will come with more study, the researchers found that one
part allicin to three parts water was a sufficient deterrent.
With West Nile Virus and Malaria
being such a concern around the world, perhaps taking a garlic supplement that contains high
amounts of allicin could deter mosquito bites.
Did you know allicin can fight the superbug MRSA (methecillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus)?
In 2003, the University of East London found that allicin
killed one of the most horrifying superbugs, MRSA. Several strains were tested,
and even the most vigorous strains responded to allicin therapy – even when
they did not respond to powerful antibiotics such as vancomycin. People report
that persistent infections are eased after taking garlic supplements containing allicin.
Did you know allicin can reduce severity and symptoms of the common cold?
Allicin’s powerful anti-bacterial and antiviral properties
mean it can make a big difference for people who have a cold or flu. Being that
colds and flus are essentially the same disease, allicin works equally well on
both.
It works by doing two things: it helps to ease symptoms; and
it directly attacks the virus responsible for the sickness. A potent antidote,
allicin harms or kills viruses that cause step, pneumonia, flu and staph
infections.
How to Eat Allicin
Though you can make allicin by crushing or chopping cloves
of garlic, it is a short-lived compound. Cooking garlic or exposing it to acids
like lemon juice can neutralize it altogether. In addition, potency varies
greatly from clove to clove.
Allicin is available to take as a garlic supplement and may
be a more effective and affordable option to manage symptoms than antibiotics.
Each tablet is the equivalent of 30 or more cloves of garlic – and there is no
garlic breath, so you won’t smell like a pizzeria all day! AllicinPlus-C is a
unique formulation that actually preserves the qualities of allicin, unlike
most garlic supplements.




