Evidence on whether garlic can help lower cholesterol levels or blood pressure are mixed.
Derived from the bulb or clove of the plant, garlic is used as a spice worldwide. It is also used traditionally for a variety of conditions such as maintaining circulatory function, to treat infections, and to boost the immune system.
Studies on whether garlic can reduce cholesterol or lower blood pressure are mixed, but other data suggest it may help reduce some cardiovascular risk factors.
Processing may reduce active compounds found in garlic products. For example, garlic powder and garlic essential oil do not contain allicin or ajoene, compounds believed to have cholesterol-reducing and blood-thinning properties.
Patients taking warfarin or other blood thinners should ask their doctor before taking garlic supplements.