A bulbous perennial plant of the lily family, with a powerful onionlike aroma and pungent taste. Garlic is native to central Asia but also grows wild in Italy and southern France. Its wide use in the United States originated among European immigrants. Inconclusive studies point to the possibility that certain substances in garlic may help to reduce cholesterol, act as anticoagulants, antibiotics, and possibly anticarcinogens.
Fresh garlic is most effective but it can also be ingested with enteric-coated capsules.
Consumption of moderate, daily quantities should not pose a health risk in healthy persons. There is a potential drug interaction when garlic is taken in combination with anticoagulants and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A moderately tall perennial herb with an erect stem and large ovate leaves, it also has large flowers that grow in orange-yellow clusters. Distributed worldwide in temperate and alpine regions, especially in Europe and Asia, North and South America, and New Zealand. Gentian has been used as an appetite stimulant and digestive aide.