It has shown long-term benefit for recurrent yeast infections . However, controlled human studies have yet to show garlic helps for yeast infections. Human population studies show that eating garlic regularly reduces the risk of esophageal, stomach, and colon cancer. This is partly due to garlic's ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds. Animal and test tube studies also show that garlic and its sulfur compounds inhibit the growth of different types of cancer , especially breast and skin tumors.
Some people chew one whole clove of raw garlic per day.
Because of garlic's anti-clotting properties, persons taking anticoagulant drugs should check with their doctor before taking garlic. Those scheduled for surgery should inform their surgeon if they are taking garlic supplements. Garlic is not contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. In fact, two studies have shown that babies like breast milk better from mothers who eat garlic. Refer to the drug interactions summary for a list of those medications.