Garlic Extract in Rheumatological Diseases: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Nutritional Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Garlic extract (GE) is a popular dietary supplement with known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and infection-fighting properties.
• Traditional use suggests potential benefits for various health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature on the efficacy and safety of garlic extract in managing rheumatic diseases.
• To synthesize findings regarding GE's impact on disease parameters and inflammatory markers.

Main Methods:

• A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and SciELO databases was conducted.
• Articles published between 1966 and May 2024 focusing on GE and rheumatic diseases were included.
• Data from four studies involving 176 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Garlic extract administration (600-1000 mg/day) for 4-12 weeks led to improvements in pain, function, disease activity, joint symptoms, and stiffness.
• Significant reductions were observed in inflammatory biomarkers, including C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor, and malondialdehyde.
• Studies primarily included female participants with an average age of 51-59 years and disease duration of approximately 6.6 years.

Conclusions:

• Garlic extract (GE) appears to be a safe and well-tolerated therapeutic option for patients with RA and OA.
• The reviewed studies indicate positive effects of GE on key rheumatic disease indicators and inflammation.
• Larger-scale clinical trials are necessary to validate these preliminary findings and fully elucidate GE's therapeutic potential.