Anything in excess can be unhealthy and harmful for you, and so is garlic.
Garlic is great for immunity, which is why it is recommended during winter. There are many more health benefits of garlic, but when eaten in excess, it may pose some health threats.
Below are some adverse effects of garlic and things to consider before consuming it:
Bad odour
Garlic odour has been found to linger in the mouth long after brushing. Experts believe that the chemicals in garlic that contribute to bad breath are the same chemicals that also render it its benefits. However, bad breath can be embarrassing. Hence, you probably need to think twice before consuming garlic. You may also take precautions and use a mouth-refreshing spray.
May cause eczema or rashes
Prolonged contact with garlic may cause skin irritation. Some specific enzymes in garlic may lead to this irritation. As per anecdotal evidence, eczema could also be one of the conditions that accompany this allergy.
May aggravate (vaginal) yeast infection
Garlic cloves may irritate the tender tissue of the vagina. Certain women insert garlic cloves into the vaginas as a remedy to treat vaginal yeast infections. This is not recommended.
May cause nausea, vomiting, and heartburn
Anecdotal evidence suggests that consuming fresh garlic bulbs on an empty stomach may cause nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. Certain observational studies have also stated that taking garlic orally can cause heartburn and nausea. Excess garlic intake may also cause GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) in some individuals.
May aggravate bleeding
Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding. Hence, it must not be taken along with blood-thinning medications like warfarin.
This is true, especially in the case of fresh garlic. It also is better to stop garlic consumption at least 7 days before a scheduled surgery. Garlic has antiplatelet effects and may increase bleeding during surgery.
May cause headache
Garlic, especially when taken in its raw form, could trigger migraines. Though it doesn’t directly cause a migraine headache, it activates the process responsible for it.
Experts believe it may involve the trigeminal nerve – the major pain pathway in the body. Taking garlic may stimulate this nerve to release neuronal signalling molecules called neuropeptides that rush to the membrane covering your brain and cause headaches.
