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International olive oil expert and judge, and member of the Scientific Society – Alexandria University.
In an ancient Egyptian village, Grandma Fatima sat on a wooden bench in front of her house, a bottle of olive oil with garlic cloves inside beside her. Her grandson, Dr. Hossam, came to visit her after a long absence...
Grandma: "My dear... Do you see this bottle? It's garlic infused in olive oil. We used to keep it in a dark corner of the kitchen, and whenever someone complained of pain... we'd give them a little. They used to call it 'grandmas' magic remedy'."
Dr. Hossam: "I know, Grandma... But what you used to do back then now has a precise scientific explanation. Garlic and olive oil aren't just cooking ingredients; together, they form a comprehensive natural remedy, though with a few simple modifications to ensure safety."
Grandma: "We used to say garlic invigorates the blood, is that true?"
Dr. Hossam: "Absolutely true. Garlic contains a substance called allicin and sulfur compounds that help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Olive oil, on the other hand, is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants (polyphenols) that maintain arterial health. When they combine, they form a powerful team for heart protection."
Grandma: "We used to use this infusion for anyone who caught a cold."
Dr. Hossam: "And this also has a scientific explanation. Garlic possesses properties that eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Olive oil, meanwhile, contains vitamin E and antioxidants that protect immune system cells. So, your remedy effectively strengthened the body against infection."
Grandma: "Do you remember, my dear, when you were little? I used to rub this infusion on your legs when you came back from playing and complained of pain."
Dr. Hossam: "And now science proves you were right. Garlic contains compounds that reduce inflammation, and olive oil includes substances that relieve pain and protect cells. That's why its topical use was effective in soothing joint and muscle pain."
Grandma: "And we used to give a spoonful of it to anyone complaining of colic or bloating!"
Dr. Hossam: "Olive oil indeed helps with proper bowel movement and relieves constipation. As for garlic, it's an excellent prebiotic, nourishing the beneficial bacteria naturally present in our intestines, which regulates digestion. But we must be careful here, Grandma; this remedy might not be suitable for those with irritable bowel syndrome, as garlic is considered a strong trigger for gas and severe bloating for them."
Grandma: "Alright, Doctor... Which is better, raw or cooked garlic?"
Dr. Hossam: "Raw garlic is more potent because it contains the highest concentration of the active compound allicin. Cooked garlic is also beneficial, but for making the infusion, raw remains the best option."
Grandma: "So, does that mean we can consume it freely and without worry?"
Dr. Hussam: "No, Grandma... because too much of anything can be detrimental. Excessive consumption of garlic and olive oil can cause stomach pain, strong bad breath, and weight gain due to the calories in the oil. Furthermore, garlic reduces blood clotting, so those taking blood thinners must exercise extreme caution."
"There's also a critically important scientific modification to your old method: to safely store this infusion and prevent the formation of very dangerous toxic bacteria (which cause food poisoning due to the lack of oxygen in the oil), this bottle must be kept in the refrigerator, not in a kitchen corner. Its shelf life should not exceed four days. Alternatively, dried garlic can be used instead of fresh garlic for a longer, safer storage period outside the refrigerator."
Grandmother: "So, my dear... what we used to do in the past was correct?"
Dr. Hussam: "Not only correct, but modern science confirms that garlic infused in olive oil is an effective natural remedy. You inherited wisdom from nature, and we now understand its secrets and are correcting its storage methods to ensure it's completely safe. However, always remember, Grandma, that knowing these natural benefits and dietary supplements never replaces consulting a specialist doctor, especially for those with chronic illnesses or who take regular medication."
Grandmother proudly: "See, science is now confirming what grandmothers have always said."
