Bioactivities of allicin and related organosulfur compounds from garlic: Overview of the literature since 2010

Abstract

THE medical values of garlic, a traditionally used allium vegetable, were recognized as early as 3000 BC. Allicin, one of the major organosulfur compounds present in garlic, is associated with a wide variety of benificial activities like anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, cholesterol-lowering, the potential to lower cardiovascular disorders, ameliorating neuron functions, etc. In this article, we have reviewed biological activities of allicin and related organosulfur compounds since the year 2010, using various scientific websites like Pub med, Google Scholar, Science Direct etc. Our literature review has highlighted many organo sulphur components of garlic and their possible mechanisms in curing different diseases. The information provided in this review will provide strategies for efficient organosulfur-based treatments of several diseases in future. Further research efforts are needed for a clear understanding of the interconnection between these functional components and various chronic diseases.