Yes, raw garlic is considered a herb.
What is a Herb?
Herbs are typically defined as the leafy green parts of plants used for flavoring or for medicinal purposes. They are often aromatic and possess distinct flavors. Garlic, belonging to the Allium genus along with onions, leeks, and chives, fits this description perfectly. Its pungent leaves and bulb are widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Mount Sinai even refers to garlic as an herb rich in antioxidants.
Garlic's Culinary Uses
Numerous sources showcase garlic's use in culinary contexts alongside herbs. For example:
- Al Fresco Roasted Garlic & Herb Chicken Sausage: This product (https://www.alfrescoallnatural.com/product/roasted-garlic-herb-chicken-sausage-fresh/) explicitly lists roasted garlic alongside basil, thyme, and oregano – all recognized herbs.
- Smithfield Marinated Roasted Garlic & Herb Pork Tenderloin: This (https://smithfield.sfdbrands.com/en-us/products/fresh-pork/roasted-garlic-herb-marinated-fresh-pork-tenderloin/) product utilizes roasted garlic as a key flavor component in a marinade that also includes herbs.
- Many other examples exist, including various herb and garlic infused oils and cheeses (https://www.greendirtfarm.com/product/fresh-cheese-garlic-herb/, https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Making-Garlic-and-Herb-Infused-Oils-At-Home.pdf), further solidifying its classification as a herb in culinary applications.
Garlic's Medicinal Properties
Beyond its culinary uses, garlic is also recognized for its medicinal properties. Its allicin content is believed to contribute to various health benefits, (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-garlic) further reinforcing its status as a herb used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The reference stating that "Garlic (Allium sativum) is an herb" directly supports this classification.
Conclusion
The evidence clearly indicates that garlic, particularly raw garlic, is a herb.
