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Garlic
By Jennifer A.Wickess Copyright 2004 History / Geography There is evidence to show that garlic has been cultivated for over 6000 years. The ancient Egyptians felt garlic provided strength, therefore, they fed it to their slaves while they were building the pyramids. Major exporters of garlic today are: California, Texas, Louisiana, France, Spain, Italy and Mexico. Gilroy, California has been named "The Garlic Capital of the World"! Science Garlic is a part of the lily family, directly related to leeks, onions, chives and shallots. Garlic grows under the ground as a bulb. The bulb is divided into sections known as cloves. Varieties There are three types of garlic used in the United States: Mexican and Italian (both a milder garlic), and American (a much stronger flavored garlic). Elephant garlic is not considered a true garlic, but is also related to the leek. Season Garlic is available year-round! How to Select Purchase your bulbs that are firm and fat with a dry skin. You do not want to see any black spots near the stem end. This is a sign of mildew. You, also, do not want to purchase any garlic that is being housed in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Purchase Garlic Print Here Storage Store garlic in an open container in a cool dark place for 8 weeks. If the bulb has been broken, then use the entire bulb within 10 days. Nutritional Qualities Potassium, Vitamin C, Phosphorus, Magnesium and Sulphur. Garlic also has anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities. Consuming garlic actually helps lower cholesterol, thin the blood, lower blood sugar, reduce blood pressure, reduce muscle cramps and spasms, aids in lung ailments and can be used for getting rid of intestinal worms! Historically, garlic has also been used to treat toothaches, open wounds, help cue insane people and even chase away evil spirits, like vampires! Some even believed that garlic helps improve one's sex life! Roman soldiers felt that garlic gave them courage, so they ate garlic before a battle! Trivia Smaller bulbs of garlic can be 20 times stronger than larger bulbs. Essential oils within garlic are very easily absorbed into the body. So, garlic can remain on your breath and perspired through your pores up to 2 days after you have consumed garlic! Garlic placed around fruit trees, can help keep rodents away. Also, garlic is great at keeping aphids and fleas at bay!
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