garlic supplements

Question
Hi, I get yeast infections often and researched garlic and it's potential to prevent these infections, so I'm considering taking it on a daily basis. However, I do have slightly low blood pressure and am hypoglycemic at times. Do you know if the garlic will be safe for me to take? Thanks so much.


Answer
Hi Catherine,

The  information below is from the Natural Standard monograph on garlic.  As you can see, lowering of blood pressure is a potential side effect.  So you would need to weigh the potential effect with the possible benefit.  If you do decide not to take it, there are other natural therapies that can be used for yeast infections.  You can research those treatments on your own, but if possible, I'd suggest consulting a naturopathic doctor in person (www.naturopathic.org) for assessment and treatment.  Given that you do have some other health concerns, you may need some additional individualized guidance, and a naturopathic approach will address these other concerns in light of your whole person health.  

Sincerely,

Dr Conner



Garlic

Summary:

 The Garlic bulb is made of many cloves wrapped with a paper-thin, white skin, and it is used both medicinally and as a spice in food (fresh or dehydrated). Bleeding has been reported with garlic use. Patients should speak with a healthcare professional before taking garlic in amounts more than normally found in foods.



Safety:

 Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to garlic or other members of the Lilaceae (lily) family (like hyacinth, tulip, onion, leek, chive). Avoid with history of bleeding problems, asthma, diabetes, low blood pressure or thyroid disorders. Stop using supplemental garlic two weeks before dental/surgical/diagnostic procedures and avoid using immediately after such procedures to avoid bleeding problems. Avoid in supplemental doses if pregnant or breastfeeding.



Possible side effects:

 Bleeding, bruising, skin rash, itching, skin burns (from contact with garlic on the skin), dizziness, sweating, difficulty breathing, fever, chills, runny nose, lower blood pressure, bad breath, body odor, changes in blood sugar levels, burning inside the mouth, poor appetite, gas, belching, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, lowered cholesterol, muscle spasm of the uterus, thyroid changes.



Possible interactions:

 Drugs that increase bleeding (like warfarin (Coumadin?), aspirin, non-steriodal anti-inflammatories), blood pressure drugs, cholesterol-lowering drugs, saquinavir, thyroid drugs, human growth hormone, vitamin E, fish oils, herbs or supplements with similar effects.



 Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)

Copyright ? 2010 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.