Sunday, January 18, 2009

Health Benefits Of Elephant Garlic

Health Benefits of Elephant Garlic


The flavor of elephant garlic is not as strong as actual garlic, which makes it more suitable as a salad or sandwich ingredient. While elephant garlic does not boast the ability to boost metabolism like common garlic can, it does provide other health benefits.


Misconceptions


Although it appears to be an oversized relative of common garlic, elephant garlic is in fact a variation of the leek.


Identification


Elephant garlic greatly resembles regular garlic, consisting of several cloves and a white, papery outer layer. The difference is that elephant garlic can be twice the size of common garlic.


Benefits


Elephant garlic is high in fiber and provides calcium, vitamin C and many B vitamins, including folic acid and potassium. It also has anti-inflammatory, diuretic and laxative properties.








Considerations


Elephant garlic can be safely stored in a cool, dry place without other produce for up to six weeks. It can be sliced and eaten raw or cooked.


Fun Fact


Alliumphobia is the fear of garlic. Since elephant garlic is actually a leek variant, though, alliumphobics can rest easy around it.

Tags: Benefits Elephant, common garlic, Benefits Elephant Garlic, Elephant garlic, elephant garlic