Yes, you can eat raw garlic. While it is typically consumed cooked, eating raw garlic is safe and even offers some advantages.
Raw garlic has a stronger flavor and more pungent smell than cooked garlic, but it preserves all of its beneficial nutrients. One of the main benefits comes from an enzyme called allicin, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. Eating raw garlic on an empty stomach might help reduce cholesterol levels.
However, be mindful that consuming large amounts of raw garlic can lead to digestive issues like heartburn, gas, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can also cause allergic reactions.
