The health benefits of garlic were realized centuries ago by mankind. Garlic is very effective when eaten raw-(crushed or chopped). Just one clove per day may bring vast improvement in your over al health. 2 to 3 cloves could prevent an attack of common cold. Garlic used in cooking should be added last for more benefit. But, taking too much garlic is also not very god as it may cause irritation in the digestive system. Garlic should be added as a part of healthy normal diet, it need not be used as an alternative. The only drawback being its pungent smell and taste that leaves a bad breadth, garlic is a medicinal boon for mankind.