Garlic as a medicine throughout the ages (Review)

Garlic (<em>Allium sativum</em>) has been integral to human culture and medicine for &gt;5,000 years, serving as both a culinary staple and therapeutic agent. The present review discusses the ethnobotanical and medicinal significance of garlic across civilizations, from its origins in Central Asia to its global dissemination through trade and cultural exchange. Ancient cultures, including those of Egypt, Greece, China, Persia, Sumer and India, recognized its antimicrobial, cardiovascular and immune‑enhancing properties, integrating garlic into diets, rituals and medicinal practices. Specific preparation methods, such as fermentation and aging, contributed to the therapeutic versatility of garlic, as observed in black garlic traditions. Moreover, the symbolic role of the plant in religious and spiritual practices highlights its multifaceted significance. Contemporary scientific research validates a number of historical claims, emphasizing the relevance of garlic in modern medicine. By discussing its historical applications and cultural interpretations, the present review aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of garlic as a bridge between ancient knowledge and modern science.