Introduction
Garlic(Botanical: Allium sativum) is a member of the same group as the onion, chives and even asparagus. The origins of garlic is uncertain due to the fact that it has been used and cultivated in the Middle East, particularly in Egypt and Mesopotamia, for more than 5,000 years predating the written word. It's one of the oldest cultivated plants.
Garlic is thought to have originated in West-Central Asia, derived from a Central Asia species A. longicupis, then spread east and west with nomadic tribes, then southern europe, where it's said to be found wild in Sicily.
The word "garlic" originates from the Anglo-Saxon word "gar-leac" which means "spear-plant". The Latin word "Allium" originates from the Celtic "All" which means hot or burning. The Latin word "sativum" means cultivated, thus the botanical name allium sativum means cultivated garlic.
Garlic is used both as food and medicine throughout the world, is abundant and inexpensive and it's been subject of many studies published from the 16th century in Europe.
Garlic is a perennial plant, but under cultivation, it becomes annual. The intense, characteristic taste and smell are caused by sulfur containing oils. Garlic contains vitamins A, B, C and antibacterial properties. Garlic is said to be able to detoxify the body, reduce blook pressure, strenghtens the coronary vessels, reduce the cholesterol level, inhibition of atherosclerosis via the use of aged garlic extract.