Garlic as a natural anticoagulant
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Garlic as a Natural Anticoagulant: Key Bioactive Compounds and Mechanisms
Garlic (Allium sativum) contains several bioactive compounds, especially organosulfur compounds like allicin and ajoene, which are primarily responsible for its anticoagulant effects. These compounds work by inhibiting platelet aggregation, slowing down thrombin formation, and promoting fibrinolysis, all of which help prevent blood clot formation and reduce the risk of thrombosis and related cardiovascular complications 158.
Forms and Effectiveness of Garlic Preparations for Anticoagulant Activity
Studies have shown that both raw, boiled, and honey-fermented garlic preparations possess anticoagulant properties. Methanolic extracts of all these forms, as well as aqueous extracts of honey-fermented garlic, significantly prolong prothrombin time (PT), indicating a stronger anticoagulant effect. Honey-fermented garlic, in particular, demonstrated the highest prolongation of PT, suggesting it may be the most effective preparation for anticoagulant activity. The anticoagulant effect increases with higher concentrations of garlic extract 23.
In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence of Anticoagulant Effects
Multiple studies using in vitro methods, such as the Lee-White method and PT measurements, confirm that garlic extracts can significantly delay blood clotting in a dose-dependent manner. Both aqueous and methanolic extracts of garlic have been shown to inhibit coagulation and extend clotting times in human blood samples 356. In animal studies, garlic administration inhibited thrombus formation and prolonged bleeding time without causing significant toxicity at moderate doses 19.
Comparison with Conventional Anticoagulants
Garlic filtrate has been compared to standard anticoagulants like EDTA and heparin. Results indicate that garlic can extend clotting time similarly to heparin and does not significantly alter erythrocyte morphology compared to EDTA, suggesting it could be a safe alternative for certain laboratory and clinical uses 610. Essential oils from garlic seedlings also showed anticoagulant activity through multiple coagulation pathways, sometimes even outperforming heparin in specific pathways .
Unique Garlic Varieties and Additional Compounds
Special varieties like Snow Mountain garlic also exhibit strong anticoagulant effects, attributed to unique organosulfur and organosulfate compounds. These compounds have shown promising results in both in vitro and in vivo studies, further supporting garlic’s potential as a natural anticoagulant 49.
Conclusion
Garlic, through its rich content of organosulfur compounds, demonstrates significant natural anticoagulant properties by inhibiting platelet aggregation, delaying clot formation, and enhancing fibrinolysis. Various preparations, especially honey-fermented and methanolic extracts, are particularly effective. Evidence from both laboratory and animal studies supports garlic’s potential as a supplementary or alternative anticoagulant, with a safety profile comparable to conventional agents in certain settings 12345678+2 MORE.
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