Allicin is derived from garlic.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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Many studies have shown that the allicin in garlic may support health in various ways.
Here’s a look at some of the more compelling evidence.
Their diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) was about 5 points lower.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Research has explored its role against the following cancers:
Allicin is a sulfur-containing compound.
Robust human trials are needed to learn more about allicin’s effects on cancer.
The NCI does not recommend taking garlic supplements to prevent cancer.
Infection
Garlic is a natural antibiotic whose use has been documented since the 1300s.
Allicin is the compound responsible for garlic’s ability to fight illness.
Allicin also seems to enhance the effect of other antibiotics.
What Are the Side Effects of Allicin?
Allicin has some side effects to be aware of, and these may be common or severe.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Dosage: How Much Allicin Should I Take?
There is no standard dose for allicin.
The dose can vary based on your health needs and the specific product.
In general, it’s best to follow the instructions on the label.
Higher daily doses are often divided into multiple doses taken throughout the day.
Breaking up doses may also help limit some of the digestive side effects.
Talk with your healthcare provider about the correct dose for you.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Allicin?
So far, studies show little evidence of toxicity from allicin.
More research is needed to determine if allicin could be toxic to adults at high doses.
Similar Supplements
Several supplements have similar activities as allicin.
For example, some people take omega-3 fatty acids to lower cholesterol.
Generally getting allicin through its food source (chopped garlic) may be considered to be most effective.
A garlic clove has about 5 to 18 mg of allicin.
Pure allicin only remains stable in freshly crushed or cut garlic for a short time.
The FDA does not regulate supplements, so their quality and potency can vary.
Amounts of allicin released in the body are often lower than the product labels claim.
It may help prevent certain cancers and may help lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
It may help your muscles recover after a workout and protect against infections.
Allicin supplements have few risks.
It might cause some stomach upset and increase the risk of bleeding.
Its safety isn’t known for children or pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Placing garlic cloves inside the vagina does not cure a yeast infection.
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