Garlic has been widely used as a food spice and a natural remedy for thousands of years by many civilizations. However, it was revealed that the origin of garlic is actually in Central Asia. Also, it was used since Neolithic times as a food spice and additive.
Based on history of herbal and alternative medicine, it was back in 5000 years; garlic has been utlilized by the Indians, Egyptians and Babylonians. During the time of the Pharaohs, it was said that slaves in order to increase their strength and stamina for the many work they perform. It was used as protection from illnesses in order for them not to get sick when they built the pyramids. They adored garlic and actually it is their local currency.
Garlic was named "the stinking rose" because of its smell and during the Greek era, garlic was sold by dealers and was only consumed by the public. The Vikings appreciated garlic as they took it with them in their travels. By 1000 A.D., garlic has gained its place globally as it has been started to be cultivated by many countries all over the world.
In the modern times, garlic production came into a halt due to unknown reasons but gained its return and until now, it is an essential part of every family. Garlic was used in the ancient times as an aphrodisiac, food, medicine and for several activities and rituals. Also, garlic was believed to have the ability to cast off evil. Hence, it was used as a protection for the family. Garlic bundles were hung on their door at night. It was also protected women and pregnant women from nymphs.
Indian civilization respected the medicinal power of garlic because of its many uses for health. They also alleged it to be an effective aphrodisiac and were used for that purpose for a long time.
Its medicinal properties were written in the Sanskrit medical dissertation and Charaka Samhita wherein the writings it is supposed to be a cure for many sicknesses and a potent substance to encourage a longer life. They used garlic as a boost, a cure for lack of appetite, cough, and many skin diseases.
Up to date, garlic is still being used in many countries both in cooking and in medicine. It is used to solve essential hypertension and even as an antimicrobial agent.
