Garlic is one of the most popular spices in the world which belongs to Alliaceae family. Garlic is so popular that it is also referred as the Stinking Rose. It is quite similar to onion. The difference lies in that in the onion there is single bulb whereas garlic produces a compound bulb consisting of groups of white or purplish scales. The garlic head consist of smaller cloves. Garlic is basically a root crop whose bulb grows underground. There are nearly 300 varieties of garlic grown worldwide.


Forms of Garlic

• Fresh Garlic
• Dehydrated Garlic Powder
• Garlic Seed

Classification of Garlic
Hard Neck Garlic
This type has a very strong flavor, but cannot be stored for long

Soft Neck Garlic
This type of garlic has a mild taste and flavor, but can be stored for a long time

Chemical Composition
The compound with which Garlic is richly endowed is sulfur. Other compound that defines garlic taste is Allicin. Other sulphur compound present in the garlic are diallyl disulphide, ajoene and minor amounts of other di- and polysulphides.

Trade in Garlic
Global Scenario
South Korea is the largest consumer of Garlic Spices, extensively used for medicinal and culinary purpose. India, China, Mexico, Argentina are the main garlic exporting countries. China is the largest garlic producer contributing nearly 75% to the world production, followed by India, Republic and Korea and USA. Indonesia, France and Brazil are the largest Fresh Garlic importing countries.

Indian Scenario
India is the second largest producer of garlic. The major garlic producing states in India are Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Orissa, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Bihar. It is exported on a large scale but a significant amount of garlic is also used for domestic consumption.


Garlic Cultivation
Garlic grows in all types of soils but the well drained soils. However well irrigated loamy soil with ample organic matter are best for their growth. Use of fertilizer will act as catalyst in its growth. Fertilizer is applied immediately after its plantation. Mid-September to early November is an ideal time for its plantation. The space between two garlic plant is kept at 10 cm in rows about 30 cm apart.

History of Garlic Garlic is derived from the English word "garleac" which means spear leek. It is native to central Asia and has been used in Mediterranean since many centuries. It is also used as for seasoning foods in Asia, Africa, and Europe. It was revered by the ancient Greeks. According to old beliefs, Garlic repels vampires, wards evil eye, protects pregnant women etc. Garlic also found mention in Bible. Greeks, Romans and native Africans used to consume it. The benefits and cultivation, the process etc was elaborately dealt by famous classical writer Pliny.

How To Choose Garlic
Garlic is used in nearly all the dishes. It enhances the taste of the meal. It is grown and consumed worldwide. While choosing garlic one should be careful while selecting it. Choose only that garlic whose head is firm. Garlic with nicks and soft cloves should be avoided. Garlic with dark patch should not be buyed as it is an indication of a common mold which will eventually spoil the flesh.

Unpeeled garlic should not be stored in a refrigerator instead it should be stored in an open container in a cool, dry place away from other foods. I f garlic is stored properly, it can last upto three months.
I f garlic is kept for long time it produces green sprout which should be peeled before adding it in the recipe as it is bitter in taste.


Uses of Garlic
Medicinal uses
Garlic has been used as both food and medicine since many centuries. The disease and disorders in which it is claimed to have positive effects are :

• Heart disease
• Atherosclerosis
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Improves Immunity
• Help in fighting common cold
• Regulates blood sugar level