HEALTH BENEFITS OF GARLIC
Garlic has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. The list of health benefits from garlic is extensive.
Because garlic is such a medicinal powerhouse, it is a predominant ingredient in Korean Natural Farming (KNF), namely as one of five ingredients in Oriental Herbal Nutrient (OHN), a tonic that is added to basically every formulation in the practice.
Modern research has confirmed many of garlic's health benefits, attributing them largely to sulfur compounds formed when a garlic clove is chopped, crushed, or chewed. Raw garlic retains more allicin, making it more potent.
Boosts Immune System
Garlic has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, helping the body to fend off various infections. Regular consumption of garlic can help reduce the frequency and severity of colds and flu.
Antioxidant Properties
Garlic’s antioxidants help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. The antioxidant properties, along with its ability to improve cholesterol and blood pressure, might help to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Garlic contains antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Garlic supports overall cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and blood pressure. Garlic can reduce total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease, while it has little effect on HDL (good) cholesterol. The sulfur compounds, particularly allicin, help to relax and dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow. Furthermore, it has antithrombotic properties, which help prevent blood clots.
Detoxifies Heavy Metals
High doses of garlic have been shown to protect against organ damage caused by heavy metal toxicity. The sulfur compounds in garlic help to remove heavy metals from the body.
Enhances Digestive Health
Garlic acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help with digestive issues like colitis.
May Have Anti-Cancer Properties
Some studies suggest that garlic consumption may reduce the risk of cancers, especially those of the digestive system, such as stomach and colon cancer. Garlic contains diallyl sulfide and other sulfur compounds that have shown potential in inhibiting cancer cell growth.
Improves Athletic Performance
Garlic has been used historically to reduce fatigue and enhance work capacity. Furthermore, some studies suggest that garlic can help improve exercise performance.
Supports Bone Health
Some studies suggest garlic can help prevent bone loss, especially in post-menopausal women.
Improves Skin Health
Due to its antimicrobial properties, garlic can be used to treat fungal and bacterial skin infections. Topical applications of garlic can help in reducing acne by killing the bacteria that cause acne.
Functional Food
Garlic can also be considered a functional food, meaning it has additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Raw garlic retains more allicin, which is responsible for many of its health benefits. However, even cooked garlic can provide some benefits.
GARLIC IN KNF
Garlic is one of five ingredients in Oriental Herbal Nutrient, OHN, a tonic added to formulas used in practicing KNF. OHN regulates the immune system and boosts health. This tonic works for plants, animals, microbes, and people.
KEY POINTS ABOUT TONICS
Physical Invigoration: Tonics are often consumed with the aim of promoting overall health and well-being. They may be thought to increase energy levels, improve vitality, and enhance physical resilience.
Systemic Support: Different tonics may target specific organ systems or bodily functions. Some tonics are believed to support the immune system, while others may improve digestion, circulation, or hormonal balance.
Herbal Formulations: Tonics can be made from a variety of ingredients, including herbs, roots, barks, fruits, and vegetables. Herbal tonics often combine multiple botanical ingredients known for their purported health benefits. Efficacy is often better with synergistic effects of combinations.
Long-Term Use: Tonics are often used over an extended period, with the idea that their effects may gradually accumulate over time to support overall health and vitality. They may be consumed daily or as part of a periodic regimen.
ADDING GARLIC TO OHN
The specific recipe for the tonic used in KNF is called OHN, Oriental Herbal Nutrient. When we look at the benefits of garlic, we see properties that make it such a useful tonic ingredient: It boosts the Immune System, has Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties, and Detoxifies Heavy Metals.
When making OHN, garlic first undergoes wild anaerobic fermentation, making the biochemical constituents bio-available. These beneficial and medicinal constituents are then extracted in alcohol. This fermented alcohol extraction will then be added to similar extractions of angelica, licorice, cinnamon, and ginger to create OHN. Detailed instructions can be found in our other materials.
The resulting tonic is then added in very dilute concentrations to formulas for plants, animals, and soil. It can also be taken by people daily on a long-term basis.
Fresh garlic is used to make OHN because it has the highest medicinal properties. The best garlic is homegrown using KNF methods. Enjoy growing and using the powerhouse of garlic.
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