Okay, so it smells and makes your breath stink but it will ward off vampires and loved ones.  We are talking about garlic.  Garlic is in the same species as the onion, leek, chive and shallot.  It has been used for centuries for seasoning but it also has great medicinal value.

For centuries garlic has been used to treat conditions such as low energy, poor digestion, respiratory problems and parasites.  Some recent studies indicate that garlic has been found to have antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.  There are also claims that it can be beneficial in preventing heart problems, cancer and high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.

The cancers that garlic is most useful in preventing are stomach and colon cancer.  Some studies conducted on animals concluded that garlic may produce some cardiovascular benefits by reducing the accumulation of cholesterol on the vascular walls. Herbalists have recommended the ingestion of garlic for preventing and for fighting the common cold and for hoarseness of the throat and for persistent coughs.  It has also been suggested that garlic may help reduce blood sugar levels which may be of some help for diabetics.

During World War I and World War II, garlic was used as an antiseptic for treating gangrene. A study has been done suggesting that mouthwash containing small amounts of fresh garlic may help kill small microbes in your mouth.  While this may be true, it could also leave you with an unpleasant taste in your mouth and bad breath. It has a high level of vitamin C in it so it may be a helpful measure to prevent scurvy.