Lahsun (Garlic) Benefits
Discover the health benefits of garlic (lahsun), a powerful natural remedy that supports immunity, heart health, digestion, and more. Learn how to use it safely and effectively in your daily routine.
Written by Dr. Mohammed Kamran
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 18th Sep, 2025
Introduction
Garlic, known as lahsun in Hindi, is not just a kitchen staple but also a powerful natural remedy that has been used for centuries to boost health. Whether you love its strong flavour or prefer it in milder forms, garlic offers numerous benefits that can improve your overall well-being. Let’s explore why this humble ingredient is considered a superfood and how you can incorporate it into your daily life for better health.
Why Is Garlic So Good for You?
Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which is responsible for its strong smell and most of its health benefits. When garlic is crushed or chopped, allicin is released, making it more effective. Here are some key ways garlic can support your health:
1. Boosts Immunity
Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties. It helps fight infections, colds, and flu by stimulating white blood cells, which protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses. Eating raw garlic or adding it to soups during the flu season can help keep illnesses at bay.
2. Supports Heart Health
Garlic helps in:
Lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol (HDL).
Reducing blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
Preventing blood clots, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Including garlic in your diet can be a simple way to keep your heart healthy.
3. Fights Infections
Garlic has natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It can help treat minor infections like colds, sore throats, and even fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Some people also use garlic oil for ear infections.
4. Aids Digestion
Garlic promotes a healthy gut by supporting good bacteria and fighting harmful ones. It can help with bloating, gas, and indigestion. However, those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs should consume it in moderation.
5. May Help Prevent Cancer
Some studies suggest that garlic may reduce the risk of certain cancers, especially stomach and colon cancer, due to its antioxidant properties. While more research is needed, including garlic in a balanced diet is a good preventive measure.
6. Improves Bone Health
Garlic may help reduce bone loss in women after menopause by increasing estrogen levels. This can lower the risk of osteoporosis and keep bones strong.
7. Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Garlic may help regulate blood sugar, making it beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes. It improves insulin sensitivity, helping the body use glucose more effectively.
8. Detoxifies the Body
Garlic supports liver function by helping remove toxins from the body. It also contains sulfur compounds that aid in detoxification.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Usage Tips
How to Use Garlic for Maximum Benefits
To get the most out of garlic, follow these tips:
Eat it raw – Crush or chop a clove and let it sit for 10 minutes before consuming to activate allicin.
Add to cooked food – While cooking reduces some benefits, it still retains many nutrients.
Garlic tea – Boil crushed garlic in water with honey and lemon for a soothing immune-boosting drink.
Garlic supplements – If you don’t like the taste, garlic capsules are an alternative but consult a doctor before starting.
Possible Side Effects & Precautions
While garlic is generally safe, some people may experience:
Bad breath or body odour
Heartburn or stomach upset (if eaten in excess)
Allergic reactions (rare but possible)
Increased bleeding risk (avoid before surgeries)
If you take blood thinners or have digestive issues, consult your doctor before increasing garlic intake.
When to See a Doctor?
While garlic is a great natural remedy, it’s not a substitute for medical treatment. It’s best to consult a healthcare professional, if you have:
Persistent high blood pressure
Severe infections
Uncontrolled diabetes
Chronic digestive problems
Final Thoughts
Garlic is a simple, affordable, and powerful way to enhance your health. Whether eaten raw, cooked, or as a supplement, it can support your heart, immunity, digestion, and more. Start with small amounts and see how your body responds.
If you have any health concerns or need personalised advice, you can book a consultation with a doctor on Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Consult Top Dieticians
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Usage Tips
Ms. Samapti Maity
Dietician
11 Years • Bsc (Clinical Nutrition & Dietitics), NDEP, Course in Maternal Infant Young Child Nutrition.
Kolkata
BIENETRE CLINIC, Kolkata
Ms. Sreeparna Dey Dhara Deb
Dietician
10 Years • DNHE
Bansdroni
Siddhita Healthcare., Bansdroni
Ms. Malabika Datta
Dietician
17 Years • Msc. in Dietetics & Food Service Management
Kolkata
Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Chaithanya R
Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist
16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(75+ Patients)
Dr Venkata Naga Sai Tribhushan Rambhatla
General Physician
3 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Consult Top Dieticians
Ms. Samapti Maity
Dietician
11 Years • Bsc (Clinical Nutrition & Dietitics), NDEP, Course in Maternal Infant Young Child Nutrition.
Kolkata
BIENETRE CLINIC, Kolkata
Ms. Sreeparna Dey Dhara Deb
Dietician
10 Years • DNHE
Bansdroni
Siddhita Healthcare., Bansdroni
Ms. Malabika Datta
Dietician
17 Years • Msc. in Dietetics & Food Service Management
Kolkata
Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Chaithanya R
Internal Medicine Specialist Diabetologist
16 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Diabetes(UK), CCEBDM(PHFI)
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(75+ Patients)
Dr Venkata Naga Sai Tribhushan Rambhatla
General Physician
3 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
