Garlic Question

[thedude]

This question is mainly directed towards Gary and other chemistry buffs:

I've read a couple of studies on Garlic in our fish tanks and how there is no real evidence to support it helps the health of our fish. I found this today:

"The Codex Ebers, an Egyptian medical papyrus, describes the use of garlic as an antiseptic. Chemists today have verified that the oxide of diallyl disulfide (the volatile compound resposible for garlic odor) is a powerful antibacterial agent."

So doesn't that prove the fact that when people feed garlic, bacterial infections often go away?

John

[cpreefguy]

I dont know, but I put garlic in everything, its so delicious

[GaryP]

It may be a topical antiseptic, but what about when it is taken internally in low concentrations?

You're talking about using garlic in very high concentrations as something like a poultice not administering it internally.

[thedude]

I agree but the very fact that it does have an antibacterial nature must account for something :D

[hammondegge]

it is so cheap and tasty.

[GaryP]

I think the main claim is that its acts as an immune system booster, not actually acting as an antibacterial.