- By Bornika Das
- Thu, 10 Apr 2025 10:24 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Garlic Myths: Considered one of the staples of the Indian kitchen, garlic is the most versatile ingredient used in tadkas, chutneys, gravies, pickles, and other dishes. Garlic is also widely used to treat ailments like colds and flu. Over time, this humble vegetable has earned a reputation for being a miracle food. But everything that you hear about garlic is not always true. Garlic has been subjected to countless bold claims and age-old beliefs. Here are some of the so-called myths about garlic that are to be busted.
Garlic is considered one of those ingredients that Indians can’t live without. Be it benefiting health like aiding in weight loss and regulating blood presure or adding a flavour to dishes, garlic has a distinct flavour and potent aroma that make it different from other ingredients in the kitchen. Garlic is packed with vitamin C, B6 and manganese and sulfur, which aid in promoting health. However, there are several myths about garlic that go about in the kitchen of your homes. Here are the truths to the garlic myths that you have been believing throughout your life.
Common Garlic Myths That Are False
Raw Garlic Is Better Than Cooked Garlic
Raw garlic contains a compound known as allicin, which has several health benefits. However, this doesn’t mean that cooked garlic is not good for health. When the garlic is sauted or roasted, some of the allicin may be lost, but the beneficial compounds become active during cooking. Besides, cooked garlic is easy to digest and contains much more flavour.
Garlic Can Cure All Health Problems
Garlic is known to be one of the healthiest ingredients. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and heart-supporting properties. But if you think that garlic can cure all the health problems that you’re believing a myth. Chewing raw garlic won’t immediately flush out the toxins from the body or heal chronic conditions. It can be helpful if you also take a healthy diet and do not treat it as a substitute for medicine. You can definitely eat raw garlic, but don’t expect overnight miracles to happen.
The More Garlic You Add, The Better It Is
Most people think that there is no such thing as extra garlic. If you add too much garlic, it can turn out to be bitter or overwhelming for the other flavours of the dish. Garlic is meant to amp up the dish and not overpower it. Balancing the garlic flavour in the dish is most important.
Garlic Myths That Are False (Image Credits: Canva)
Garlic Don’t Spoil
Garlic will not remain forever in the kitchen. Like any other food item, it also gets rotten. Soft, mushy cloves, green sprouts or a sour smell are some common signs to discard it. Sprouted garlic is still edible, but it may taste bitter. To keep garlic fresh, store it in a cool, dry place with good airflow. Never keep it in the fridge.
Eating Garlic Can Keep Mosquitos Away
This is one of the popular myths with no solid proof. It is believed that the strong smell released through your skin might ward off the bugs, but this is not backed by science. For mosquitos, what might actually work is eucalyptus.
Always Peel Garlic Before Cooking
Although peeling garlic is common, it is not necessary for every dish. When you roast whole garlic with the skin, it gives a soft, sweet flavour and makes it super easy to squeeze out. Even in Indian curries, some people throw in unpeeled cloves for a mild infusion of flavour and then remove them before serving.