Garlic is one of the most useful and versatile medicinal herbs.   In Asia, it is a major crop, second only to onions as a bulb crop.  It is grown in many other parts of the world as well.
    We all know it is a useful flavoring agent for foods.  It's used in sauces for pizza and pasta, garlic bread, and other Italian dishes.  In Mexico and the Caribbean islands, it's found in many hot sauces.  In the orient, it's used in many hot and spicy dishes. 
    It's medicinal benefits include, destroying infections , lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, fighting colds and flu, kidney and bladder problems.  Externally, it can be used on minor cuts and scrapes, skin infections, and athlete's foot.  Cooking destroys the anti-bacterial effect, so eat it raw to fight infections.  Garlic oil, which is sold in capsules, is effective also.   The ancient Egyptians gave a daily ration of garlic to slaves to prevent illness.
Hippocrates recommended it to treat infections, cancer, leprosy, wounds and digestive problems.

Garlic in Folklore:

The Koreans ate garlic before traveling through the mountains because they believed tigers disliked it.

The ancient Egyptians would swear on garlic like we swear on the Bible.  Garlic was often included in the treasures buried with a mummy.

Olympic athletes in ancient Greece would take garlic for strength. 

Greek and Roman soldiers ate garlic for strength and courage.

Dreaming about garlic is a good omen.