Benefits of Garlic for Blocked Arteries

Artery plaque is the accumulation of substances such as fats, calcium and cholesterol along the interior of artery walls. Throughout time, this plaque can actually harden your arteries, which makes them less flexible and can result in hindered blood , which can lead to stroke, heart attack and death.

Treating artery plaque must be done with the supervision of your physician, and typical treatments consist of prescription medications along with lifestyle alterations; however, if you wish to take a more hands-on approach when it comes to controlling artery plaque you may use natural supplements. Garlic is among the most used herb in food dishes, but did you know that preliminary scientific studies have found garlic can actually help treat and prevent plaque accumulation in your arteries?

Garlic Medicinal Compounds:

According to modern research studies, the primary active compound found within garlic is a substance known as allicin, which is derived from the compound alliin. This compound is unique as whole garlic cloves contain a high concentration of alliin; however, the human body is unable to absorb alliin. Yet, when garlic is crushed or broken down, alliin is automatically converted to allicin, which can then be absorbed by your body.

Garlic for Blocked Arteries - Scientific Evidence:

According to researchers from the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Cardiology Research Center, studies have found that the active compounds within garlic may actually inhibit high blood pressure as well as biological activities that are believed to narrow artery walls. Allicin has also been found to hinder the accumulation of plaque along artery walls.

Results from several animal studies have found that the active compound in garlic has potential to not only prevent artery plaque accumulation, but also dissolve plaque that is already resting along your artery walls. While initial studies are promising, further investigation is required to determine the true effectiveness of garlic for blocked arteries in humans.

Dosage Recommendation:

The exact dosage of garlic for blocked arteries can vary, and you should discuss appropriate dosage levels with your physician before starting a supplementation routine. This being said, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking up to 1,200 mg of garlic extract per day. Make sure that these doses are divided up. To ensure maximum potency, consume a supplement comprised of at least 0.6 percent allicin, or 1.3 percent alliin.

References Used:

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/garlic-000245.htm

University of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9263259

Nutrition Journal: Effects of Garlic on Atherosclerosis