According to Dr. Tra Anh Duy from the Men’s Health Center, garlic has long been a staple in both Asian and European cuisine. Not only is it flavorful, but traditional and modern medicine also recognize garlic as a valuable remedy with various benefits, including anti-inflammatory, blood pressure-lowering, and cancer-preventing properties.
A common belief is that garlic can improve male sexual health. Dr. Duy explains this belief as follows:
The effects of garlic on male sexual health
Supporting blood circulation and improving erectile function
Garlic contains an active compound called allicin, which has vasodilating effects, improving blood flow. This is crucial for male sexual health, as erectile function largely depends on blood flow to the penis.
A 2024 study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that combining garlic juice with tadalafil (a drug for erectile dysfunction) in patients who didn't respond well to the drug alone significantly improved erection firmness, duration, and sexual satisfaction.
Impact on sperm quality
In experimental mouse models, garlic has been shown to improve sperm count and motility. A 2012 review published in Andrologia indicated that garlic extracts protect testicular tissue from oxidative damage and improve reproductive indices. However, the authors also noted that high doses of garlic can reduce testosterone and have spermicidal effects in some cases.
Is garlic truly an "aphrodisiac"?
Garlic does have the potential to improve blood circulation and offer antioxidant benefits, which are important for male sexual health. However, there's currently no definitive scientific evidence that garlic alone can improve sperm quality or erectile function in healthy men. Most current research is preclinical or involves small human studies.
Consuming garlic as part of a Mediterranean diet or a balanced diet is beneficial. However, using high doses with the hope of instantly boosting sexual performance is not scientifically supported and can be harmful.
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Garlic improves cardiovascular health and male sexual function if consumed in the right dosage. Photo: Bui Thuy |
Garlic improves cardiovascular health and male sexual function if consumed in the right dosage. Photo: Bui Thuy
Warnings about garlic overuse
Despite its benefits, garlic is not a "more is better" food. Some studies suggest that long-term consumption of high doses of garlic can damage the liver and kidneys and cause digestive disorders.
Liver toxicity
According to research, a garlic dose of about 0.5 g/kg of body weight per day can lead to morphological changes in the liver in rats. This means that a 60 kg person consuming 30 g of raw garlic daily (equivalent to 8-10 large cloves) continuously could be at risk of liver damage.
Kidney damage
A 2023 rat study, published in Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, showed that consuming 300-600 mg/kg of garlic for 21 days can cause renal tissue changes, increased kidney enzymes, and damage to the renal tubules. This serves as a warning for those who habitually consume large amounts of raw garlic daily.
Effects on the stomach and breath
Raw garlic can irritate the stomach lining, causing bloating, heartburn, or acid reflux. Additionally, the sulfur compounds in garlic give breath a strong odor that lingers in the body, which can negatively affect communication and sexual life if not managed well.
According to Dr. Duy, garlic should be used as a seasoning in reasonable doses (1-2 cloves/day). Excessive consumption of raw garlic, especially on an empty stomach, should be avoided. If you are taking anticoagulants, blood pressure medication, or stomach medication, consult your doctor before increasing your garlic intake.
Garlic cannot replace medication for erectile dysfunction or infertility. If you experience signs of sexual dysfunction, consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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