Unveiling garlic's secret: From gourmet flavor to a health powerhouse

Once, I saw my grandmother placing garlic under her pillow before going to bed. This made me decide to investigate this old practice. To my surprise, I discovered that garlic is a popular culinary addition and a vegetable known for its health benefits. It contributes to boosting immunity and improving sleep quality.

Although placing garlic under a pillow may initially sound a bit eccentric, it brings numerous benefits. It is especially worth trying in the autumn-winter season, when our immunity weakens, and we are more susceptible to colds, and in spring when the weather is unpredictable. My grandmother has used this method for a long time and often praises it.

Garlic contains vitamins A, C, E, and K. It is also a potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron source. Its composition also includes sulfur compounds, including allicin, which have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. All this makes garlic strengthen the body's immunity and effectively ally in the fight against colds and other infections.

Garlic not only helps in combating infections but can also be used as a sleep aid. The aroma of garlic, released when crushed, contains the mentioned allicin, which acts calmingly and relaxing. Research has shown that smelling the aroma of garlic reduces cortisol levels, a stress hormone adversely affecting sleep quality. Additionally, garlic helps reduce inflammation in the body, which can make falling asleep difficult.

To boost immunity, garlic should be regularly consumed in raw, cooked, or baked form. It can also be added to soups, sauces, salads, sandwiches, and many other dishes. For colds, a drink made of milk, garlic, and honey is recommended. To prepare such a drink, crush one clove of garlic, add it to warm milk, and after cooling, sweeten with a teaspoon of honey.

Inhaling the scent of garlic can facilitate falling asleep. For this purpose, you need to crush a clove of garlic and then inhale its aroma for a while. You can also put garlic under your pillow at night.

Placing garlic under the pillow is a simple and effective method to boost immunity and improve sleep quality. It's worth trying this method to see its effectiveness for oneself. However, it should be remembered that in the case of more serious illnesses, garlic cannot replace consulting with a doctor.

Garlic not only facilitates falling asleep and supports the immune system but also helps control blood sugar levels and reduces blood pressure. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to preventing neurodegenerative diseases and lowering the level of heavy metals in the body. Moreover, garlic can support bone health, digestion, and the body's ability to deal with bacterial and fungal infections.