Chooseing a plant that has had an important impact on people. Discuss how the plant has affected human culture.

Essay by taylordestiniCollege, UndergraduateA, December 2004

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Plants have been the most important source of medicine throughout human history; they have been credited from healing burns to treating diseases.

One of the earliest documented examples of plants used for medicinal purposes is garlic (Allium sativum). This cure-all plant can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians, who believed it gave strength to the men who built the pyramids; the Nomadic tribes of Asia used it to ward off evil spirits; and some had even claimed it as having aphrodisiacal properties, while others used it to keep vampires at bay.

Although there is little scientific evidence backing its effectiveness, garlic has been used for centuries around the world. Can millions of people have been wrong?

Garlic contains active compounds that are released when the bulbs are crushed or chopped. These active ingredients have been shown to help prevent inflammation and oxidation, and since diseases, such as, cardiovascular and arthritis have been linked to an excess of inflammation and oxidation it makes sense that researchers would connect the two.

Studies have shown a significant decrease in cholesterol, blood pressure, and the reduction of blood clotting in its subjects. The only COMMON side effect of garlic is unpleasant breath.

In short, the benefits of garlic were recognized by cultures that had no contact with the other. That speaks volumes