Deodorized Garlic Extract
Also known as: Deodorized garlic extract, DGE, Aged garlic extract, AGE, Garlic oil extract, Allium sativum extract
Overview
Deodorized garlic extract (DGE) is a processed form of garlic (Allium sativum) designed to minimize the strong odor associated with raw garlic while retaining its beneficial active compounds. It is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement, particularly for its cardiovascular health benefits. DGE contains stable sulfur compounds, such as S-allyl cysteine (SAC), which are more bioavailable and less irritating than the volatile compounds found in raw garlic. Its main applications include supporting blood pressure reduction in individuals with hypertension, and it has also been studied for its potential to improve lipid profiles and provide antioxidant effects. Research on DGE, especially aged garlic extract, is extensive, with numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy, particularly in blood pressure management. The processing into a deodorized form enhances its palatability and compliance for long-term use.
Benefits
Deodorized garlic extract offers significant, evidence-based benefits, primarily in cardiovascular health. The most robust evidence supports its role in reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Meta-analyses consistently report reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP) ranging from approximately 4 to 8 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) reductions of about 1.4 to 5.5 mmHg. These SBP reductions are clinically relevant and can contribute to a decreased risk of cardiovascular events. The benefits are most pronounced in adults with hypertension, while normotensive individuals typically experience minimal or no significant blood pressure changes. Secondary benefits, though less consistently documented, include potential improvements in lipid profiles and enhanced antioxidant status. The effects are generally observed after several weeks to months of consistent supplementation, highlighting the need for long-term use to achieve and maintain benefits. High-quality meta-analyses and systematic reviews underscore the strength of evidence for these effects.
How it works
Deodorized garlic extract exerts its therapeutic effects primarily through its organosulfur compounds, such as S-allyl cysteine (SAC). These compounds promote vasodilation, a widening of blood vessels, which reduces vascular resistance and subsequently lowers blood pressure. This vasodilation is largely mediated by an increase in nitric oxide (NO) production within the body. Additionally, garlic compounds are known to inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a key enzyme involved in blood pressure regulation, further contributing to their hypotensive effects. The extract also interacts with the cardiovascular system by improving endothelial function and modulating inflammatory mediators. Its antioxidant properties help protect vascular health. The stable, water-soluble sulfur compounds in deodorized and aged garlic extracts exhibit good oral bioavailability, allowing for effective absorption and systemic action.
Side effects
Deodorized garlic extract is generally well-tolerated and has a favorable safety profile in clinical trials. Common side effects, reported in more than 5% of users, are typically mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as indigestion or heartburn. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of individuals, may include mild allergic reactions or skin irritation. Rare side effects, observed in less than 1% of users, include a theoretical increased risk of bleeding due to its antiplatelet effects; however, this is rarely observed in clinical practice with typical dosages. Caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, particularly with anticoagulants (blood thinners) and antiplatelet medications, as garlic extract may enhance their effects. Contraindications include individuals with known bleeding disorders, those undergoing planned surgery, or concurrent use of blood thinners without medical supervision. For special populations, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use due to limited data, and its use in children is not well-studied.
Dosage
For optimal benefits, particularly in blood pressure management, the recommended dosage of deodorized or aged garlic extract ranges from 1200 mg to 2400 mg per day, standardized to its active sulfur compounds. Meta-analyses suggest that doses above 600 mg/day may begin to show effects, but more consistent and clinically significant benefits are observed at doses exceeding 1200 mg/day. The maximum safe dose reported in clinical trials is up to 2400 mg/day; higher doses should be approached with caution due to the theoretical increased risk of bleeding. Daily dosing is recommended, often divided into multiple doses, and can be taken with or without meals. Deodorized or aged garlic extracts are preferred forms due to their improved tolerability and consistent bioactive content. The water-soluble sulfur compounds in these extracts have better bioavailability compared to raw garlic. Consistent intake over several weeks to months is necessary for the effects to become apparent.
FAQs
Is deodorized garlic extract effective for lowering blood pressure?
Yes, especially in hypertensive individuals, with clinically meaningful reductions in systolic blood pressure and modest diastolic blood pressure reductions, supported by high-quality research.
Is it safe to use with blood pressure medications?
Generally safe, but it's crucial to discuss with a healthcare provider to monitor for additive hypotensive effects and potential interactions, especially with blood thinners.
How long before effects are seen?
Benefits typically become apparent after several weeks to months of consistent daily use, as the active compounds accumulate and exert their effects.
Does it cause garlic breath?
Deodorized extracts are specifically processed to minimize or eliminate the strong odor and are significantly less likely to cause garlic breath compared to raw garlic.
Can it replace prescription antihypertensives?
No, deodorized garlic extract should be considered an adjunctive therapy to support blood pressure management, not a replacement for prescribed antihypertensive medications.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8031974/ – This meta-analysis of 25 randomized controlled trials found that garlic supplements significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients, but showed no effect in normotensive individuals. The study highlighted the high quality of trials confirming the blood pressure-lowering effect of garlic.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39437887/ – This recent meta-analysis of 9 randomized controlled trials specifically on hypertensive adults concluded that aged garlic extract reduced systolic blood pressure by approximately 4 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by about 1.4 mmHg. It noted that higher doses, particularly above 1200 mg/day, were more effective, despite some moderate heterogeneity in results.
- https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/etm.2019.8374 – This meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials demonstrated that garlic supplements lowered systolic blood pressure by 8.32 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 5.48 mmHg in hypertensive adults. The study emphasized the generally high quality of the included trials, providing strong evidence for the blood pressure-lowering effect of garlic.