Scientists from the National Institute of Integrative Medicine in Australia have found that garlic may help lower blood pressure, improve gut health, and reduce arterial stiffness.
The study, conducted by Karin Ried and colleagues, was published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine.
Garlic belongs to the Allium (onion) family and is closely related to onions, shallots, and leeks.
It has long been recognized for its wide range of health-promoting and disease-preventing properties.
Research suggests that garlic may help reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, diabetes, and high blood pressure through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering effects.
Scientists have shown that garlic can reduce blood pressure to a degree similar to that of standard hypertension medications. Kyolic aged garlic extract, in particular, has been found to support detoxification and protect the liver against oxidation-related diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Garlic can also help reduce chronic inflammation, strengthen immune function, and support the body’s natural defense systems.
In addition, Kyolic aged garlic extract may improve heart health by reducing arterial stiffness, lowering blood cholesterol levels, and decreasing blood “stickiness,” which can contribute to clot formation.
Its prebiotic properties can enhance gut microbial richness and diversity, contributing to improved gut health.
In the current review, researchers examined clinical trials investigating garlic’s effects on blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and gut health in people with hypertension.
Kyolic aged garlic extract is made from organically grown garlic cultivated in California’s Central Valley without chemical fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides.
The team reviewed 12 studies involving 553 people with high blood pressure. They found that garlic supplements lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 8.3 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 5.5 mm Hg—effects comparable to those of standard blood pressure medications.
This reduction in blood pressure was associated with a 16–40% decrease in the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.
The researchers also identified vitamin B12 status as an important factor influencing how well individuals respond to garlic supplementation. Furthermore, Kyolic aged garlic extract strongly reduced central blood pressure, pulse pressure, and arterial stiffness, and improved gut microbiota after three months of use.
Based on these findings, the team concluded that Kyolic aged garlic extract is a safe and effective supplement for managing high blood pressure, offering multiple additional benefits for cardiovascular and gut health.
