Garlic, well-known for its culinary use, offers a plethora of health benefits, especially when combined with olive oil. Here’s why garlic oil is good for your health:
Medicinal Properties: Garlic contains compounds like allicin, diallyl disulfide, and S-allylcysteine, which have powerful biological effects. These compounds contribute to its numerous health benefits.
Boosting Immune System: Garlic supplements can boost the immune system, making you less susceptible to colds and aiding in a quicker recovery after an infection.
Blood Pressure: Garlic has been found to lower blood pressure, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Aged garlic extract, in particular, has shown to reduce systolic blood pressure.
Cholesterol Levels: Garlic can help in lowering cholesterol levels. Garlic preparations, especially dried garlic powder, have been effective in significantly reducing total cholesterol levels.
Olive Oil Benefits: Olive oil, with its monounsaturated fat called oleic acid, reduces inflammation in the body and provides antioxidant effects. It’s associated with a reduced risk of stroke and heart disease.
Preparing Garlic Oil: To make garlic oil, you’ll need one clove of garlic and ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Peel and finely chop the garlic clove.
- In a medium-sized pan, combine the chopped garlic and olive oil.
- Heat the mixture gently without burning it.
- Transfer the mixture into an airtight jar and let it infuse overnight.
You can consume a tablespoon of this oil in the morning or use it topically. Garlic oil may help with acne treatment, hair loss prevention, and dandruff control due to its various beneficial properties. It contains selenium, zinc, and allicin, which can improve skin health and stimulate hair growth, strengthen hair roots, and soothe the scalp, respectively. To combat dandruff, simply massage the oil into your scalp and leave it overnight before rinsing with a mild shampoo.
