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Garlic as a lipid lowering agent--a meta-analysis
Journal of the Royal College of Physicians of London
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Garlic supplements significantly reduce total cholesterol by 12% compared to placebo, offering a natural option for managing hypercholesterolaemia. This effect is sustained for at least six months.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Nutritional Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hypercholesterolaemia is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Garlic (Allium sativum) has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
- Existing evidence on garlic's lipid-lowering effects requires systematic evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze randomized controlled trials on garlic's effect on serum lipids and lipoproteins.
- To compare the efficacy of garlic preparations against placebo and other lipid-lowering agents.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of published and unpublished randomized controlled trials.
- Inclusion criteria: garlic preparations, duration ≥ 4 weeks, comparison with placebo or other agents.
- Searches of MEDLINE, ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE databases, and direct manufacturer contact.
Main Results:
- Sixteen trials with 952 subjects were included; many had methodological limitations.
- Garlic therapy resulted in a mean total cholesterol reduction of -0.77 mmol/l (12%) compared to placebo.
- Reductions in total cholesterol were observed within one month and persisted for at least six months.
Conclusions:
- Garlic supplements demonstrate a significant lipid-lowering effect, particularly on total cholesterol.
- Dried garlic powder preparations, standardized for allicin, effectively reduce total cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Garlic may play a role in managing hypercholesterolaemia, though trial quality varies.