Indications
Garlic Oil is a dietary supplement made from garlic (Allium sativum). It is traditionally used to support heart and circulation health, and some people take it to help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels as part of a healthy lifestyle. Scientific evidence for these effects is limited and modest, and it does not replace prescribed medicines.
How It Works
Garlic contains sulphur compounds, such as allicin and its breakdown products, which give garlic its smell. These compounds may slightly relax blood vessels, reduce the stickiness of blood platelets (the cells that help blood clot) and have mild antioxidant effects. The amount of active compounds varies between products.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth with food, as directed on the label, usually one to two soft capsules daily. Taking it with meals helps reduce garlic taste and stomach upset. Do not take more than the label recommends.
Interactions
Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners such as Warfarin, Clopidogrel or Aspirin. It may lower blood levels of Saquinavir and some other HIV medicines. It may add to the effect of blood pressure and blood sugar medicines. Tell your doctor if you take any of these.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to garlic or related plants such as onion. Avoid if you have a bleeding disorder, unless your doctor agrees.
Side Effects
Garlic Oil is usually well tolerated. Possible effects include garlic breath and body odour, heartburn, burping, bloating, nausea and loose stools. Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions or increased bleeding.
Get urgent medical help if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising, blood in urine or stools, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, rash or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Garlic in normal food amounts is safe. Supplement doses have not been well studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so ask your doctor before using them. Garlic may change the taste of breast milk.
Precautions and Warnings
Stop taking garlic supplements about 7 days before surgery or dental procedures because of the bleeding risk. Talk to your doctor before using it if you have stomach ulcers, low blood pressure or diabetes, or take regular medicines. Not a substitute for cholesterol or blood pressure medicines.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause stomach upset, heartburn, nausea and a higher bleeding risk. Seek medical advice if a large amount has been taken, especially by a child.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal dietary supplement.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.