A potent mix of wine and garlic has been praised for its potential health benefits, according to the Journal of Nutrition. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, while red wine is packed with antioxidants that are beneficial for health.
The combination was a key ingredient in an ancient remedy called Bald's eyesalve, a medieval antiseptic that also contained 'cow bile'. This concoction was found in Bald's Leechbook, an old English manuscript held in the British Library, which detailed various treatments.
Scientists who recreated this 9th Century Anglo-Saxon remedy were "astonished" to find it almost completely wiped out MRSA. Red wine contains polyphenols, specifically resveratrol, which comes from the skin of grapes.
This substance has numerous benefits, including preventing damage to blood vessels, reducing cholesterol, preventing clot formation and certain types of cancer, such as colon, breast, lung or prostate cancer.
A recent study by the University of Medical Sciences of Havana (UCM-H) suggests that a daily glass of wine could have numerous health benefits, including reducing rheumatoid arthritis, aiding digestion, improving vision and even combating allergies due to its antihistamine properties. The moderate consumption of red wine can also offer antiseptic, fungicidal, purifying and antimicrobial benefits.
The polyphenols found in red wine are said to hinder the streptococcus mutans bacteria, which is responsible for plaque and cavities, according to UCM-H. Prof Tim Spector has also championed the benefits of red wine - but only when consumed in moderation. He previously stated: "Red wine has three times more polyphenols than white wine."
The fermentation process itself actually boosts the number of polyphenols. However, Prof Spector was quick to clarify: "We're definitely not saying that alcohol itself is good for you," adding that the study showed that any benefits disappear once you exceed an average of three glasses of red wine per day.
"Looking at the studies that would seem to be fine for most people," he says. But don't be fooled into thinking this refers to the large pub measures! We're talking about traditional French wine glasses where you'd get six to a bottle."
Garlic, a staple in herbal medicine since ancient times, is packed with allicin, an antibiotic and antioxidant, according to MEDAC. The Spanish institute suggests eating garlic raw, as it retains many beneficial compounds like adenosine and ajoene, which have anticoagulant properties, even when cooked.
Garlic's health benefits are numerous, including preventing respiratory infections, boosting the immune system, lowering cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, detoxifying the body of heavy metals, and regenerating tissues, says MEDAC. It also helps lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals, regulates cholesterol, and boosts immunity.
Prof Spector commented on the subject of garlic this week, saying "Garlic is packed with prebiotic inulin fibre to support your gut health and is thought to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can help fight cold and flu In fact, one randomised controlled test found that taking garlic extract led to three times less colds over a period of three months than taking a placebo.