Evidence Level
Aged black garlic is a well-researched supplement with notable effects on cardiovascular health and immune function. Ried et al. (2020) conducted a meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 553 hypertensive participants, demonstrating that aged garlic extract lowers systolic blood pressure by an average of 8.3 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 5.5 mmHg, comparable to standard antihypertensive medications. This effect is attributed to the conversion of unstable allicin into stable S-allyl cysteine (SAC), which has high oral bioavailability (98%) compared to raw garlic.
In addition to its blood pressure-lowering effects, aged black garlic has been shown to improve lipid profiles. Jung et al. (2014) found that 12 weeks of supplementation with aged black garlic increased HDL cholesterol levels in participants with mild hypercholesterolemia. Furthermore, Ried et al. (2016) reported that 2400 mg/day of aged garlic extract reduced total cholesterol, LDL, and coronary artery calcium progression in metabolic syndrome patients.
Aged black garlic also supports immune function. Nantz et al. (2012) conducted a 90-day RCT with 120 participants, showing that aged garlic extract enhanced NK cell and gamma-delta T-cell proliferation and reduced the severity of cold and flu symptoms by 21%. These findings highlight the potential benefits of aged black garlic for immune health.
Overall, aged black garlic is supported by robust evidence for its cardiovascular and immunomodulatory effects.