I was taking an evening nap, and I was awakened by an involuntary burp that had a distinct taste: garlic! Wow, garlic not only can cause a major smelly burp, but if you consume enough of it, it can exude out of your pores.
Garlic has benefited humans back to antiquity, spanning over 7,000 years. From ancient Egypt to Rome, garlic has been used for its ability to flavor food and its medicinal benefits. Garlic has been used to fight infections and high blood pressure, which may reduce the risk of blood clots.
Modern use for potential benefits includes cardiovascular, antimicrobial, and even cancer prevention. Healthline also suggests protection against the common cold. Greek physician Hippocrates, “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” He prescribed garlic for many medical conditions but I’m not suggesting throwing out your high blood pressure medicine and ordering a large pizza with buttered garlic crust. Always check with your caregiver before stopping any medication to follow any friend, media, or Facebook-suggested alternative therapy.
Folklore suggests that Vampires are allergic to garlic. In some movies, in addition to the crucifix, a string of Garlic is worn around the neck. “Horror” reviews suggest that you “grab your cross, Holy Water, and garlic” to survive a vampire attack. From “Nosferatu” 1922, one of the most influential vampire movies, to “Dracula’ 1931, Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” 1992, Fright Night” 2011 there are 100’s of vampire movies to watch if you are so inclined. Every summer, the real-life little vampires known as mosquitoes are as close to a vampire as I want to give.
I personally love garlic to cook with! Garlic bread, spaghetti, mashed garlic potatoes, garlic chicken, garlic shrimp, roasted garlic, garlic soup, and endless other dishes. Fresh-roasted Garlic spread on fresh Italian bread is excellent anytime.
Pizza may be the second most popular food in America, and it’s best when the crust is loaded with garlic butter!
