Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Thiosulfinates, particularly allicin, are sulfur-containing compounds naturally found in garlic (Allium sativum). Garlic has a long-standing traditional use for the prevention and treatment of colds. More recently, scientific studies have examined the role of thiosulfinates as active components responsible for these effects. Allicin, the principal thiosulfinate, has been shown in vitro to possess antimicrobial and antiviral properties. A few small-scale clinical trials have explored garlic extracts or supplements standardized to allicin content for the prevention of the common cold. One randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (Josling, 2001) found that a daily garlic supplement reduced the incidence of colds and shortened their duration compared to placebo. However, the body of clinical evidence remains limited, with most studies having small sample sizes, variable formulations, and methodological limitations. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that while there is some evidence suggesting garlic (and by extension, thiosulfinates) may have a modest effect in preventing colds, the quality and quantity of evidence are insufficient for firm conclusions. Therefore, while scientific investigation is ongoing and some preliminary results are promising, the overall strength of evidence is moderate at best, warranting a rating of 2 out of 5.

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