6. Garlic’s Antimicrobial Allicin – The Natural Throat Defender
Garlic is more than a culinary staple; it’s a powerful source of allicin, a compound with significant antimicrobial properties.
Allicin, when crushed or chewed, is released from garlic, offering antibacterial benefits that are thought to assist in fighting off infections, including those caused by streptococcal bacteria.
Incorporate raw garlic into your diet by adding it to dishes or, if you can tolerate the strong taste, consuming a clove directly. The key is to crush or slice the garlic and let it stand for a few minutes to maximize allicin release before consumption.
Introduce garlic gradually into your diet to gauge your tolerance and avoid potential gastrointestinal discomfort. A clove or two per day is generally considered a reasonable amount.
Regular consumption of garlic as part of your diet may provide cumulative benefits for throat health and general immunity support. (6)