Dr. Grey AI

Society garlic

Society garlic is a South African plant (not true garlic) traditionally used for infections and as food flavoring. Contains sulfur compounds similar to garlic. Limited research suggests possible cardiovascular and antimicrobial effects. Some animal studies show testosterone effects, but evidence is preliminary. NO GRADED OUTCOMES. Not widely available as a supplement. Safer than true garlic with milder taste (hence 'society' - can be eaten before social events).

Quick Answer

What it is

Society garlic is a South African plant (not true garlic) traditionally used for infections and as food flavoring. Contains sulfur compounds similar to garlic.

Key findings

  • Grade D: Antimicrobial Activity
  • Grade D: Blood Pressure
  • Grade D: Blood Glucose

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Society garlic

Quick Facts: Society garlic

  • Best Evidence:Grade D
  • Conditions Studied:2
  • Research Outcomes:6
  • Key Effect:Cardiovascular Health
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B0
C0
D6
2 conditions · 6 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

|
D
Antimicrobial Activity
In vitro studies show Tulbaghia violacea extracts exhibit trypanocidal and leishmanicidal activity via trypanothione reductase inhibition, plus antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus through ergosterol synthesis inhibition. Antibacterial activity was generally weak.
small↑Improves
D
Blood Glucose
In STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats (n=7/group), Tulbaghia violacea rhizome extract (60-120 mg/kg) significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, improved glucose tolerance, and increased plasma insulin levels compared to untreated diabetic controls.
moderate↓Improves
D
Testosterone
In an in vitro study using mouse testicular cell cultures, Tulbaghia violacea ethanol extract (312.5-5000 μg/ml) significantly increased LH-induced testosterone production. No effect was observed without LH stimulation, and no human studies exist.
small↑Improves
D
Blood Pressure
In a 7-week animal study, Tulbaghia violacea root methanolic extract (50 mg/kg) reduced systolic blood pressure by 12.88% in Dahl salt-sensitive rats, with increased sodium excretion and lower ACE activity compared to captopril control.
moderate↓Improves
D
Blood Lipids
In a diabetic rat model, Tulbaghia violacea extract reduced serum triglycerides, VLDL, and total cholesterol while increasing HDL-cholesterol, along with reduced liver enzyme markers (ALT, AST) suggesting hepatoprotective effects.
small↓Improves
D
Antioxidant Status
In diabetic rats, Tulbaghia violacea extract increased antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), elevated plasma nitric oxide, and reduced lipid peroxidation markers (TBARS) in liver tissue.
small↑Improves

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