The japanese garlic originated in Central Asia; However, at present it is a food that is used throughout the world not only to flavor dishes, but also for its medicinal benefits, among which the reduction of cancer risk, lower blood pressure and strengthen the immune system. Find out what advantages this type of garlic offers, how it is prepared, what its characteristics are and where it can be obtained.
What is Japanese garlic like and why is it different from the rest?
Japanese garlic looks very peculiar and, although some confuse it, it is not the same as Chinese garlic. The Japanese variant is characterized by having the following:
- Five and seven large teeth per bulb
- Large bulbs, almost reaching that of elephant garlic
- Yellow teeth, almost tan
- Not very strong flavor, only slightly spicy which makes it very pleasant for most people
What is the use of consuming Japanese garlic?
Among the best known benefits of Japanese garlic are:
Strengthen the immune system and prevent infections
According to research published in Advances in Therapy, people who consume this type of garlic are less likely to get colds and they recover sooner, compared to those who do not eat it.
Researchers believe this is because garlic contains a compound called allicin, which may be able to prevent common colds.
On the other hand, there is research that seem to indicate that frequent consumption of garlic could kill fungi, viruses and bacteria.
Reduce blood pressure and prevent heart disease
According to data from an investigation published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, After four weeks of a Japanese garlic diet, a clinically significant blood pressure lowering effect was obtained in adults with mild hypertension.
Also, other research have found that consuming Japanese garlic helps reduce the risk of heart attack and heart failure. This is possibly because it slows blood clots, improves blood circulation, and reduces plaque build-up in the arteries.
Lower the risk of cancer
Eating this type of garlic, either raw or cooked, can be of great help in preventing the risk of developing colon and stomach cancer, according to a study from the University of Maryland.
On the other hand, there is research that indicates that garlic and its compounds reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in animals.
Improve the functioning of the urinary system
According to a study published in Pertanika Journal of Tropical Agricultural Science, garlic extract may be effective in fighting drug resistant bacteria in the urinary tract.
In fact, for years, taking a clove or two of garlic with lemon juice has been used as a home remedy to clear urinary tract infections.
Lose weight
According to a study published in Nutrition and Metabolism, Garlic oil can suppress weight gain and decrease adipose tissue in rats.
Furthermore, the researchers found that this oil may also be effective in improving the lipid profile and alleviating liver steatosis.
How should Japanese garlic be taken?
Japanese garlic can be a perfect substitute for the common garlic with which it is regularly cooked. It can be included in most recipes, to flavor food, like meats, pasta, salads, soups and sauces.
However, some options to incorporate it into daily life can be:
- Slice a clove of garlic and add it to salads.
- Prepare a syrup with garlic and honey by placing all the crushed garlic cloves in a glass container together with the honey. This mixture must rest for at least 24 hours.
- Make a dressing with five cloves of Japanese garlic, 50 g of soy sauce, 30 g of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 20 g of olive oil. Mix the ingredients and add to the dish of your choice.
- Drink a garlic infusion, which can be done by boiling two cups of water in which the garlic cut into pieces is placed and left to cook for at least two minutes.
Where can you get Japanese garlic?
If you want to consume this type of garlic, it is not difficult to get it in Mexico. Actually, it is easily available in some supermarkets.
Effects of consuming too much garlic
As with other types of garlic, When you consume a large amount of this, you can get headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, burning and an upset stomach.
Japanese garlic shows promise for your health. However, this food does not represent a miracle cure for any disease, so it is not a substitute for any treatment for the aforementioned conditions. Its consumption should be moderate to avoid adverse effects.
With information from the US National Library of Medicine and Tuberculos.org.
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