Garlic is the most common and basic herb that most people in this world often use as part of cooking ingredients for their meals. I believe, garlic is always available in every kitchen around the globe. Well, you do have garlic in your kitchen, right? Furthermore, its power as natural home remedies is unquestionable!

Texture & Contour

Garlic is officially well known as Allium sativum L. For centuries, garlic has been used throughout recorded history for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It has a characteristic pungent, spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens considerably with cooking. A bulb of garlic, the most commonly used part of the plant, is divided into numerous fleshy sections called cloves. The cloves are used as seed, for consumption (raw or cooked), and for medicinal purposes. The leaves, stems (scape) and flowers (bulbils) on the head (spathe) are also edible and most often consumed while immature and still tender. The papery, protective layers of ’skin’ over various parts of the plant and the roots attached to the bulb are the only parts not considered palatable.

Storage

Domestically, garlic is stored warm (above 18 °C or 64 °F) and dry, to keep it dormant (so that it does not sprout). It is traditionally hung; softneck varieties are often braided in strands called “plaits” or grappes. Untreated garlic kept in oil at room temperature can support the growth of deadly Clostridium botulinum. Peeled cloves may be stored in wine or vinegar in the refrigerator. Commercially, garlic is stored at 0 °C, also dry.

Farming

Allium sativum grows in the wild in areas where it has become naturalized. Garlic is easy to grow and can be grown year-round in mild climates. In cold climates, cloves can be planted in the ground about six weeks before the soil freezes, and harvested in late spring. Garlic plants are not attacked by pests. Garlic plants can be grown close together, leaving enough room for the bulbs to mature, and are easily grown in containers of sufficient depth. Even though you don’t have a garden or backyard and living in an apartment, there is always a way to cultivate garlic, for example, in a pot. Thus, in case you live quite far from the market and suddenly you are running out on garlic, no need to worry being out of stock.

Stay tune for the second part about this powerful garlic. How does garlic play significant role to our health, the side effects and important recommendations to be concerned.

Reference:

Garlic the wonder food

Garlic - Enhances Immune Function

Garlic Health Benefits

Garlic - Wikipedia