What are garlic’s main drawbacks?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Garlic can lead to "garlic breath" and body odor, especially after consuming raw garlic; these effects are commonly reported in clinical trials, and some supplements are formulated to reduce these odors. Additionally, although it is rare, garlic may also cause allergic reactions.

    Garlic consumption can cause “garlic breath” and body odor, which are typically most pronounced after eating raw garlic.[1] These side effects are also frequent-reported “adverse events” in clinical trials.[1][2][3] Some supplement formulations (e.g., aged garlic extract) are designed to minimize such odors.[4][5]

    In rare cases, garlic may cause an allergic reaction.[1]