Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic bulb
For the health condition: Chills

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Garlic bulb (Allium sativum) has been traditionally used in various systems of medicine, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and European folk remedies, to support the body during chills, colds, and fevers. In these traditions, chills are often seen as a sign of an underlying infection or imbalance, and garlic is valued for its "warming" properties and its reputed ability to fight off "cold" conditions. The historical rationale centers on garlic’s pungency, which was believed to stimulate circulation and promote sweating, thus helping to "drive out" chills and break fevers.

From a scientific perspective, garlic contains bioactive compounds such as allicin, which have demonstrated antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects in laboratory settings. These properties may, in theory, help the body combat infections that can cause chills, such as viral or bacterial illnesses. However, there is a lack of direct clinical studies specifically examining garlic’s effectiveness in treating or alleviating chills as a symptom. Most modern research focuses on garlic’s role in supporting cardiovascular health or its general antimicrobial activity, rather than its impact on chills per se.

In summary, the use of garlic for chills is supported primarily by tradition, with some plausible but indirect scientific rationale. Clinical evidence directly linking garlic to relief from chills is lacking, so its use remains rooted in historical practice rather than robust scientific validation.

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