Garlic and the Common Cold: What Science Really Says About Immunity
Garlic contains sulfur compounds like allicin that may help activate immune cells involved in the body’s response to common cold viruses./Freepik Garlic ( Allium sativum ) has been used for centuries in traditional remedies for colds and support of the immune system. With recent interest in natural immune-boosting foods, many people ask whether garlic can prevent or treat the common cold (also known as upper respiratory tract infection). This article provides a science-based review of current research, including clinical trial data and expert insights, to help you understand what garlic can — and cannot — realistically do. What Is the Common Cold? The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, typically caused by rhinoviruses and several other virus families. Symptoms often include sore throat, nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, and fatigue. While colds usually resolve on their own, they are a leading cause of sick days and discomfort worldwide. ...