Allium sativum (Garlic) in Medicinal Chemistry: Phytochemical Constituents and Pharmacological Potential - A Review

Abstract

Allium sativum (garlic) is widely recognized for its diverse medicinal and therapeutic properties, attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds such as organosulfur compounds, flavonoids, polyphenols, saponins, vitamins, and minerals. This review highlights current research on Allium sativum pharmacological potential, emphasizing its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial activities. Garlic exhibits strong antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals and enhancing enzymatic defense systems, protecting cells from oxidative stress and related damage. Its anti-inflammatory properties involve modulation of cytokine production and inhibition of key pathways, offering therapeutic benefits in chronic diseases including cardiovascular disorders, metabolic syndrome, and inflammatory conditions. Allium sativum also demonstrates anticancer activity through apoptosis induction, cell-cycle arrest, tumor suppression, and antimutagenic effects, as observed in various cell lines and experimental models. Additionally, garlic possesses potent antimicrobial effects against bacteria, fungi, and drug-resistant pathogens, achieved via membrane disruption, biofilm inhibition, and suppression of virulence factors. These pharmacological activities validate garlic’s traditional use and underscore its role as a natural, multifunctional agent and functional food. Future research should focus on standardized preparations, isolation of novel bioactive compounds, detailed mechanistic studies, clinical validation, and advanced delivery systems to enhance bioavailability, optimize therapeutic efficacy, and integrate garlic into modern preventive healthcare and treatment strategies.