10 Possible Side Effects Of Allium Sativum (Garlic)

Allium sativum has some side effects when used improperly, such as gastrointestinal disturbances, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea, caused by its high sulfur content.

These side effects can worsen lives by disrupting daily routines and causing discomfort.

In severe cases, garlic can interact with medications, such as blood thinners, and exacerbate conditions like high blood pressure.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Allium sativum if used imporperly.

1. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum causes allergic reactions in some individuals due to its sulfur-containing compounds and volatile oils.

The allergenic properties of garlic are attributed to its ability to stimulate the release of histamine, a chemical mediator involved in allergic responses.

As a result, people may experience symptoms such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing after consuming garlic or being exposed to its volatile compounds.

2. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum triggers asthma attacks due to its sulfur-containing compounds, specifically allicin and diallyl disulfide.

These compounds can cause bronchospasms, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath in individuals with pre-existing asthma or respiratory issues.

3. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum produces excessive sweating in some individuals due to its sulfur compounds, which stimulate the sweat glands and increase perspiration.

The active ingredient, allicin, is responsible for this side effect by triggering the sympathetic nervous system's "fight or flight" response, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure, ultimately causing excessive sweating.

This reaction is more common in people who are sensitive to garlic or consume large amounts of it regularly.

4. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum induces vomiting in some individuals due to its sulfur compounds.

The volatile oils present in garlic can stimulate the digestive system and cause increased activity of the stomach muscles, leading to nausea and vomiting. Additionally, garlic's ability to dilate blood vessels can increase blood flow to the stomach, exacerbating gastrointestinal discomfort.

This adverse reaction is more common among people who are not used to consuming large amounts of garlic or those with pre-existing gastrointestinal issues.

5. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum increases blood pressure due to its ability to cause blood vessels to constrict and increase peripheral resistance.

This is attributed to the sulfur compounds present in garlic, particularly allicin and diallyl disulfide, which stimulate the body's natural response to stress by releasing epinephrine and increasing sympathetic nervous activity.

As a result, heart rate and blood pressure rise, potentially leading to hypertension in some individuals.

6. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum lowers blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production and glucose uptake in the body.

The active compounds present in garlic, such as allicin and diallyl disulfide, have been shown to increase glucose metabolism and reduce glucose absorption from the gut, leading to a decrease in blood sugar levels.

Additionally, garlic has been found to improve insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to more effectively utilize insulin and regulate blood sugar levels.

7. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum interacts with medications that are broken down by liver enzymes, such as blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs.

This interaction can increase the risk of bleeding or decrease the medication's effectiveness.

The sulfur compounds in Allium sativum inhibit these enzymes, leading to increased levels of the medication in the bloodstream and potentially causing adverse effects.

8. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum worsens kidney disease due to its sulfur content, which can increase uric acid production in the body.

As a result, individuals with pre-existing kidney issues may experience further decline in renal function.

The compound allicin present in garlic can also reduce the blood flow to the kidneys, exacerbating existing damage and potentially leading to more severe complications.

9. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum enhances bleeding risk due to its ability to thin the blood and prevent platelet aggregation.

The sulfur compounds found in garlic, such as allicin and diallyl disulfide, have been shown to inhibit platelet activation and increase the risk of bleeding, particularly when taken in large doses or with anticoagulant medications.

10. Produces skin rashes

Allium sativum disrupts thyroid function due to its ability to inhibit the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), which can lead to decreased levels of T3 in the body.

This is thought to be caused by allicin, a compound found in garlic that has been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism.

As a result, people consuming high amounts of garlic may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression, which can be indicative of hypothyroidism.