Allicin-the heart of garlic

[postino]

Allicin is the major biologically active component of garlic. First reported by Cavallito and Bailey in 1944,
allicin is the key ingredient responsible for the broad-spectrum of anti-bacterial activity in garlic. Research also showed that allicin is responsible for lipid-lowering, anti-blood coagulation, anti-hypertension, anti-cancer, antioxidant and anti-microbial effects.

Nonetheless, allicin is not found in fresh garlic. The chemistry of garlic is extremely complex. Fresh garlic contains an enzyme called "allinase" and “alliin”, which are contained in different parts of the garlic plant. This unique structure is designed as a defence mechanism against microbial pathogens of the soil. When fungi or other soil pathogens attack the cloves, the membrane of those compartments is destroyed, and within 10 seconds, all the alliin is converted into a new compound called allicin.

The allicin produced has a very short half-life (the time needed for one-half of a given amount of the component to deteriorate) and has a typical odour of freshly crushed garlic. This is a very efficient weapon because the clove’s defence systems only comes to life (activated) in a very small location and for a short period of time, whereas the rest of the allinase and alliin remain preserved in their respective compartments and are available for subsequent microbial attacks. More importantly, as a large amount of allicin generated could also be harmful for the plant tissues and enzymes, this very limited short-lived production that is confined to the area where the microbial attack takes place, minimizes self-damage to the plant.

could be any health benefits of allicin in hiv positive?

[aztecan]

Actually, if you are on meds, the opposite is true. Taking garlic supplements can be harmful.

As you pointed out, raw garlic, or the granulated or powder forms used in cooking, won't harm the individual or prevent HIV meds from working properly.

But, if you are on ARV therapy, the active ingredient you mention can prevent HIV meds from being absorbed properly and result in less than a therapeutic level in the body.

If your not on meds, have at, although there is no evidence this supplement will help fight HIV in the body.

HUGS,

Mark

[postino]

Thanks Mark

[Roie]

When I first began HAART, I was most upset to hear that garlic is a NO NO. But its just capsulated garlic that is the NO NO. Thank goodness because garlic is very important. I like it a lot.

[aztecan]

Yes Roie, that is correct.

Garlic soup, garlic bread, whatever, eat to your heart's content.

But steer clear of the supplements. That is where problems arise.

HUGS,

Mark

[sharkdiver]

Folks, 

even though this is an issue relevant to people that are poz and taking meds,  the OP is not poz.
Just so ya know