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

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Synopsis

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

Garlic (Allium sativum) has a long-standing reputation in traditional medicine for treating a variety of infectious diseases, including diphtheria. In many folk remedies, especially within Ayurvedic, Unani, and traditional European medicine, garlic was believed to have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Historical texts sometimes mention its use for throat infections, respiratory illnesses, and as a general protective agent against "contagion," which, before the discovery of Corynebacterium diphtheriae, may have included what we now know as diphtheria. The use of garlic was likely due to its pungent volatile oils (notably allicin), which were thought to disinfect and clear the airways.

However, there is little direct scientific evidence that garlic, whether raw or in extract form, can effectively treat or support recovery from diphtheria. Modern studies have shown that garlic exhibits some antibacterial properties in vitro, but these have not been specifically demonstrated against Corynebacterium diphtheriae in clinical settings. Additionally, diphtheria is a serious disease that requires prompt medical intervention, including antitoxin administration and antibiotics. Relying on garlic alone would be inadequate and potentially dangerous. Thus, while garlic's use for diphtheria is rooted in tradition, its efficacy is not supported by robust scientific data.

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