Can You Juice Garlic? Health Benefits & Easy Methods
Yes, you can juice garlic, but it’s often more potent in flavor and health benefits when used raw or added to juices in small amounts.
Garlic juice offers powerful health benefits, from boosting immunity to lowering cholesterol. While juicing garlic might sound unusual, it’s an effective way to consume this potent superfood. This guide covers everything you need to know about juicing garlic, including methods, recipes, and health precautions.
Health Benefits of Garlic Juice
Raw garlic contains allicin, a compound with remarkable medicinal properties. Juicing preserves these benefits better than cooking. Here’s why you should consider garlic juice:
- Powerful anti-inflammatory – Reduces inflammation throughout the body
- Natural antibiotic – Fights bacterial, viral, and fungal infections
- Heart health booster – May lower blood pressure and cholesterol
- Immune system support – Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
- Detoxification aid – Helps eliminate toxins from the body
For maximum benefits, consume garlic juice immediately after preparation. The active compounds begin degrading quickly.
Nutritional Profile
One clove (3g) of raw garlic contains:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Manganese | 0.1 mg | 5% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 1.3 mg | 2% |
| Selenium | 0.6 mcg | 1% |
How to Juice Garlic: 3 Simple Methods
1. Using a Juicer
The most efficient method uses a heavy-duty juicer:
- Peel garlic cloves (1-2 per serving)
- Cut apples and other produce to fit juicer chute
- Juice garlic first, followed by sweeter ingredients
- Stir well and drink immediately
Tip: Pair garlic with apples, carrots, or bell peppers to balance the strong flavor.
2. Blender Method
If you don’t have a juicer, use a high-powered blender:
- Blend peeled garlic with 1 cup water or juice
- Strain through cheesecloth or fine mesh
- Press solids to extract maximum liquid
- Mix with other juices if desired
3. Garlic Press Technique
For small quantities:
- Press peeled cloves through a garlic press
- Collect the pulp in a bowl
- Add a tablespoon of water and mix
- Strain through a fine sieve
Garlic Juice Recipes
Garlic-Apple Immune Booster
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 medium apples
- 1/2 lemon (peeled)
- 1 inch ginger
Juice all ingredients together. The apples and lemon balance garlic’s pungency.
Garlic-Carrot Detox Juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 4 large carrots
- 1 celery stalk
- 1/2 beet
This earthy combination supports liver function and detoxification.
Safety and Precautions
While garlic juice is generally safe, consider these guidelines:
- Limit to 1-2 raw cloves daily to avoid stomach irritation
- May interact with blood thinners – consult your doctor
- Can cause heartburn in some individuals
- May increase bleeding risk before surgery
Start with small amounts (1/2 clove) and increase gradually as tolerated.
Storing Garlic Juice
Fresh garlic juice loses potency quickly. For best results:
- Consume immediately after making
- Store in airtight glass container if needed
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours
- Freezing not recommended – alters flavor and nutrients
For more juicing tips, check out our guide on the best juicers for vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does juicing destroy garlic’s benefits?
No – juicing actually preserves more nutrients than cooking. The allicin remains active for about 30 minutes after juicing.
Can I drink garlic juice every day?
Yes, in moderation (1-2 cloves daily). Excessive amounts may cause digestive upset.
How do I reduce garlic breath after juicing?
Chew fresh parsley, mint leaves, or drink lemon water. These help neutralize sulfur compounds.
Is garlic juice better than eating raw garlic?
Juicing makes nutrients more bioavailable while being gentler on digestion than chewing raw cloves.
