Commission E Monograph: Garlic

Name of Drug: Allii sativi bulbus, garlic clove.

Composition of Drug: Garlic bulbs, consisting of fresh or carefully dried bulbs that consist of the main bulb with several secondary bulbs (cloves) of Allium sativum L. [Fam. Alliaceae], as well as its preparations in effective dosage. Garlic contains alliin and its degradation products, and sulfur-containing essential oils.

Uses: Supportive to dietary measures at elevated levels of lipids in blood. Preventive measures for age-dependent vascular changes.

Contraindications: None known.

Side Effects: In rare instances there may be gastrointestinal symptoms, changes to the flora of the intestine, or allergic reactions. Note: The odor of garlic may pervade the breath and skin.

Interactions with Other Drugs: None known.

Dosage: Unless otherwise prescribed: average daily dosage 4 g fresh garlic [one medium clove]; equivalent preparations.

Mode of Administration: The minced bulb and preparations thereof for internal use.

Actions: Antibacterial, anti-mycotic, lipid-lowering, inhibition of platelet aggregation, prolongation of bleeding and clotting time, enhancement of fibrinolytic activity.

Reprinted with permission from The Complete German Commission E Monographs—Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines, a 700-page guide featuring 380 monographs. The guide was published by the American Botanical Council, Austin, Texas, 1998.