Evidence supporting the use of: Alliin
For the health condition: Influenza

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Synopsis

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

Alliin is a sulfur-containing compound found in garlic (Allium sativum). Its use in supporting or treating influenza is primarily justified by traditional medicine rather than robust scientific validation. Garlic has a long history in folk medicine for its purported immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties. Historical texts and traditional practices across various cultures have recommended garlic preparations for colds and flu-like illnesses. This is largely based on the observation that garlic may reduce the severity or duration of respiratory tract infections.

While alliin itself is not directly antiviral, when garlic is crushed, alliin is converted by the enzyme alliinase to allicin, which has demonstrated some antimicrobial effects in vitro. However, scientific studies specifically investigating alliin or even allicin for the treatment or prevention of influenza in humans are limited and of low quality. Most evidence comes from laboratory research or small, inconclusive clinical studies, often using garlic extracts rather than isolated alliin. As such, although there is a strong traditional rationale for the use of garlic (and by extension, alliin) in influenza, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy remains weak and insufficient for firm recommendations.

More about Alliin
More about Influenza

Products containing Alliin

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