All the above descriptions on the wide range of biological
activities that allicin has been found to have should
have propelled this molecule into becoming a prime candidate
for therapeutical use. Unfortunately, until now
pharmaceutical companies have not become interested in
investing in the development of this antimicrobial molecule
as a drug and in performing the necessary preclinical
and clinical efficacy trials. The reasons for this
unfortunate situation are that no patents can be submitted
on allicin due to its long-standing presence in the public
domain. This is not the first time that economic considerations
will prevent a natural compound with superb medicinal
properties to reach those patients that could most
benefit from it.