Can I eat raw garlic during my menstrual period?
May 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, it is safe to eat raw garlic during menstruation, but it should be consumed in moderation. Garlic contains abundant allicin and sulfur-containing compounds, which have strong antibacterial activity and can inhibit and kill various pathogenic microorganisms, helping to reduce the risk of infectious diseases such as gynecological inflammation. Some components in garlic can also stimulate blood vessel dilation and increase blood flow.
Generally speaking, it is okay to eat raw garlic during menstruation, but it must be done in moderation. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Garlic contains abundant allicin and sulfur-containing compounds, which have strong antibacterial activity and can inhibit and kill various pathogenic microorganisms, helping to reduce the risk of infectious diseases such as gynecological inflammation. Some components in garlic can stimulate blood vessel dilation and increase blood flow, thereby promoting blood circulation to some extent. Good blood circulation helps the normal shedding and expulsion of the endometrium, alleviating possible abdominal discomfort and pain.
However, if too much raw garlic is consumed, its spicy nature may irritate the gastric mucosa, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Additionally, excessive consumption of raw garlic may cause obstruction in menstrual blood discharge, inducing dysmenorrhea or even prolonged menstrual bleeding. Therefore, excessive intake should be avoided.
During menstruation, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and consume more iron-rich foods to replenish nutrients that may be lost during this period.
