GARLIN 10 mg Licap 30's pack

Overview

Garlin 10 mg Licap (Garlic Oil) is a standardised herbal preparation derived from Allium sativum (garlic). Garlic oil contains allicin and its transformation products, along with sulphur-containing compounds including ajoene and diallyl disulphide. These bioactive constituents are associated with lipid-lowering, antiplatelet, antioxidant, and mild antihypertensive properties. Garlin is indicated as a supportive therapy for hyperlipidaemia, atherosclerosis prevention, and mild hypertension, and is one of the most widely used herbal cardiovascular supplements.

Dosage and Administration

The usual dose is 1–2 capsules daily for 8–18 weeks, or as directed by a physician. Capsules should be swallowed whole with adequate water and may be taken with food to reduce the possibility of gastric discomfort. The course of treatment may be repeated as clinically indicated under physician supervision.

Interaction

Garlic may enhance the anticoagulant/antiplatelet effects of warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, and other blood-thinning medications, increasing bleeding risk — monitor INR if used concurrently with anticoagulants. Garlic may interact with certain HIV medications (e.g., saquinavir) by altering their metabolism via CYP3A4. Patients on antihypertensive drugs should be monitored for additive blood pressure-lowering effects.

Contraindications

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to garlic or other Allium species. Use with caution in patients with bleeding disorders or those scheduled for surgical procedures (discontinue at least 2 weeks prior to surgery due to antiplatelet effects). Avoid in patients with peptic ulcer disease or severe gastro-oesophageal reflux.

Side Effects

Garlic preparations are generally well tolerated. Reported adverse effects include garlic breath odour, body odour, gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, flatulence, heartburn, bloating), and allergic reactions (skin rash, urticaria) in sensitive individuals. Increased bleeding tendency has been reported with high doses. Topical garlic preparations are known to cause contact dermatitis.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Culinary amounts of garlic are considered safe during pregnancy. However, garlic supplements in concentrated form should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as safety data for high-dose supplementation in these populations is limited. Consult a physician before use.

Precautions and Warnings

Garlin is a herbal/nutraceutical product and should not replace prescribed lipid-lowering or antihypertensive medications. Patients taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs should consult their physician before using this product. Discontinue at least 2 weeks before elective surgery. Results are best seen with consistent use over 8–18 weeks as part of a healthy lifestyle including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Garlin replace my cholesterol-lowering medication (statin)?
A: No. Garlin is a herbal supplement with modest lipid-modifying properties and is intended as a supportive or complementary measure, not as a replacement for prescribed lipid-lowering therapy such as statins. If you are on statin therapy, discuss with your physician before adding any supplement to your regimen.

Q: Will taking Garlin capsules cause garlic body odour?
A: Garlic oil capsules typically cause less odour than raw garlic due to the encapsulated formulation, but some patients may still notice mild garlic breath or body odour. Taking capsules with meals can help minimise this. Enteric-coated or odour-controlled formulations release the active compounds in the intestine rather than the stomach, further reducing odour.