Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine found that a component of garlic oil, diallyl trisulfide, helps protect the heart after a heart attack and during heart surgery. Mice that received this component after a heart attack had 61% less damage to the affected heart tissue than untreated mice
The research also suggested that the component could reduce heart enlargement in a mouse model of heart failure. Further research is needed to understand the effects in humans.
Garlic supplements, and in particular aged garlic extract, have also been shown to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. It appears to do this in part by preventing vasoconstriction, or the narrowing of blood vessels. While the effects of garlic are comparable to standard blood pressure medications, people with inadequate levels of vitamin B may not experience this benefit.
