Traditional Uses: Traditionally used in ancient Egyptian, Greek, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medicine for over 5,000 years to treat infections (bacterial, viral, fungal), cardiovascular conditions, digestive ailments, and as a general tonic to enhance strength and immunity.
Potential Benefits: May help modestly reduce total and LDL cholesterol (by about 10-15%) and lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals (by 5-10 mmHg), exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against common pathogens (including E. coli, Salmonella, Candida), and supports immune function, though evidence for cancer prevention is limited.
Warnings: Avoid therapeutic doses during pregnancy (may increase bleeding risk and is traditionally used as an abortifacient) and breastfeeding; may cause gastrointestinal upset (nausea, heartburn), body odor, and increases bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulants (warfarin) or before surgery; potential interactions with antiplatelet drugs, HIV medications (saquinavir), and diabetes medications.
