Diallyl trisulfide (DATS) (diallyl trisulfide)
Synopsis
Diallyl trisulfide (DATS) is a sulfur-containing organosulfide compound found in garlic (Allium sativum), especially after the garlic is crushed, chopped, or aged. It forms as part of the breakdown of allicin, which itself is created from alliin when garlic is mechanically damaged. DATS is one of several volatile sulfur compounds in garlic, along with diallyl disulfide (DADS) and S-allyl cysteine (SAC), and is considered among the most biologically potent.
DATS has been shown in modern research to possess:
- Anticancer properties, including the ability to inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), and suppress tumor angiogenesis in various cancer models (e.g., colon, prostate, breast)
- Detoxification support, especially through activation of phase II detoxifying enzymes like glutathione S-transferase
- Cardiovascular protection, including vasodilation, blood pressure reduction, and anti-atherosclerotic effects
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, with modulation of oxidative stress markers and inflammatory cytokines
- Antimicrobial effects against bacteria, viruses, and fungi
- Neuroprotective effects, such as supporting mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative damage in neural tissue
DATS also contributes to the distinct odor of garlic and is more lipophilic (fat-soluble) than some other garlic compounds, enhancing its ability to interact with cellular membranes and influence intracellular signaling pathways.
It is most commonly delivered via aged garlic extract, garlic oil, or stabilized garlic supplements, where DATS appears in measurable and standardized amounts.
Historical Use
While DATS itself was only identified and studied in the 20th century, its source—garlic—has an extensive historical record spanning thousands of years, with uses that align closely with what modern science now attributes to DATS and its sulfurous relatives.
In Ancient Egypt, garlic was given to laborers and warriors to enhance strength and disease resistance. In Greek and Roman medicine, garlic was used for respiratory infections, digestive issues, and circulatory support. Hippocrates and Galen praised its value for cleansing and stimulating the body.
In Ayurvedic medicine, garlic (lasuna) was used as a rasayana (rejuvenating tonic) to balance vata and kapha, stimulate agni (digestive fire), and act as a blood purifier and anti-inflammatory agent. It was frequently recommended for joint pain, infections, and reproductive health.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), garlic was employed to dispel cold, move qi, and eliminate parasites and toxins. It was used for intestinal disturbances, respiratory infections, and abscesses, and often prescribed during epidemics.
Although traditional practitioners did not isolate DATS, the physiological effects they attributed to garlic—immune defense, circulatory enhancement, inflammation reduction, and detoxification—correspond strongly to DATS’s known biological activity.
Today, DATS is a focus of oncology, cardiology, and functional medicine research, representing the scientific validation of garlic’s ancient therapeutic power. It is commonly included in garlic-based supplements designed for cancer prevention, cardiovascular health, liver detoxification, and immune modulation.
Body Systems
Circulatory System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Liver (Science)