Garlic Bulbs: Inhibits bacterial growth?
The study is the first to show that the chemical -- known as allicin -- could be an effective treatment against a group of infectious bacteria that is highly resistant to most antibiotics. Allicin is a natural compound secreted by garlic bulbs. This chemical compound ward off a closely-related group of plant pathogens found in soil and water habitats. In the 1980s, a bacteria -- known as the Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) -- emerged as a cause of serious and transmissible lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis. The Bcc are highly versatile plant and human pathogens that have not been studied to the same extent as other superbugs -- such as MRSA. The bacteria produce potent antimicrobial agents, making them naturally drug-resistant and allowing them to survive in polluted and antibiotic-rich environments. Caution Measures to limit the spread of Bcc infections among people with cystic fibrosis brought the number of cases down considerably. However, current ther