Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic bulb
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Garlic bulb (Allium sativum) has a long history of use in various traditional medicine systems, particularly for its purported effects on liver health and detoxification. In some folk and herbal traditions, garlic is believed to support liver function and has been used as a complementary remedy for a range of hepatic conditions, including cirrhosis. The rationale is typically based on garlic's general antimicrobial, antioxidant, and purported blood-cleansing properties, rather than on specific clinical evidence for cirrhosis treatment.

However, scientific studies directly examining garlic’s efficacy in treating or managing cirrhosis of the liver in humans are extremely limited. Some preclinical studies (in animal models or cell cultures) suggest that garlic extracts may have hepatoprotective effects, potentially due to their antioxidant compounds (such as allicin and S-allyl cysteine) and their ability to modulate enzymes involved in detoxification. Nevertheless, these findings have not been robustly translated into clinical practice, and there is a lack of well-designed, large-scale human trials that specifically assess garlic’s impact on cirrhosis.

In summary, garlic’s use for liver cirrhosis is primarily rooted in traditional practice rather than supported by strong scientific data. While some laboratory studies suggest possible liver-protective effects, the evidence is preliminary and insufficient to recommend garlic bulb as a treatment for cirrhosis. Individuals with liver disease should consult healthcare professionals before using garlic supplements, as they can interact with medications and impact liver metabolism.

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