Evidence supporting the use of: Garlic bulb
For the health condition: Congestive Heart Failure

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Synopsis

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

Garlic (Allium sativum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, including for cardiovascular health. More recently, scientific studies have explored its effects on various aspects of heart function. In the context of congestive heart failure (CHF), the evidence is limited but noteworthy. Some clinical trials and animal studies have suggested that garlic may improve peripheral circulation, reduce blood pressure, and exhibit mild vasodilatory and antioxidant effects. These properties could theoretically benefit patients with heart failure by reducing cardiac workload and improving endothelial function.

However, robust, large-scale clinical trials specifically investigating garlic’s effects in CHF patients are scarce. A few small studies have shown that garlic supplementation may modestly improve exercise tolerance and reduce some symptoms in heart failure patients, possibly due to its ability to lower systemic vascular resistance and improve lipid profiles. The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin, are thought to mediate these effects. Guidelines from major cardiac societies do not currently recommend garlic as a primary or adjunct therapy for CHF due to insufficient evidence.

In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary clinical data supporting garlic's potential cardiovascular benefits, the direct evidence for its use in treating congestive heart failure remains limited. Its use for this condition is better supported by scientific exploration than by tradition, but the overall quality and quantity of evidence warrant caution.

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