The builders of the pyramids reportedly ate garlic for strength and endurance. It is a member of the lily family and is closely related to onions and chives. While it is used primarily as a flavoring ingredient for many foods, garlic is also exalted for many therapeutic virtues, including the ability to lower blood pressure, serum cholesterol, and to aid in digestion. It also stimulates the immune system and is a natural antibiotic and antioxidant. Eating garlic regularly may also reduce the risk of throat, stomach and colon cancer.
Raw garlic is highest in beneficial activity, and can be taken daily.
Garlic may also reduce blood sugar so glucose control could be affected. There are no known problems with pregnant women taking garlic, but breast feeding mothers should be aware that garlic may cause an altered flavor in breast milk.