Aged Garlic Extract
Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) is a unique garlic preparation produced by soaking sliced raw garlic in aqueous ethanol for up to 20 months. This aging process significantly reduces the harsh, odorous compounds found in raw garlic, such as allicin, while concentrating more stable, water-soluble, and bioavailable organosulfur compounds, most notably S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC) [1].
Unlike raw garlic, AGE is odorless and has a high safety profile, making it a well-tolerated supplement. It has been the subject of extensive clinical research, primarily for its benefits on cardiovascular health, including blood pressure reduction and slowing the progression of atherosclerosis [1, 2, 3].
Chemical Composition and Key Bioactive Compounds
The extended aging process transforms the unstable, oil-soluble compounds in raw garlic into a variety of stable, water-soluble compounds. This chemical conversion is what distinguishes AGE from other garlic preparations.
| Compound | Description |
|---|---|
| S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC) | The most abundant and well-researched active compound in AGE. It is a powerful antioxidant and is largely responsible for the cardiovascular benefits of the extract. The concentration of SAC is often used to standardize AGE products [3]. |
| Flavonoids | These are plant-based compounds with antioxidant properties that contribute to the overall health effects of AGE [1]. |
| Other Organosulfur Compounds | Includes di-allyl-disulfide and other stable compounds that work synergistically with SAC to improve blood vessel function and reduce oxidative stress [1]. |
Health Benefits
While preclinical studies suggest potential neuroprotective effects, the primary clinical evidence for AGE supplementation centers on its significant benefits for cardiovascular health, particularly in managing hypertension.
Cardiovascular Health and Blood Pressure
The most robust clinical evidence for AGE lies in its ability to lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.
- Evidence: Multiple randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that AGE can effectively lower systolic blood pressure (SBP). A 2016 study published in Integrated Blood Pressure Control found that in a group of 88 uncontrolled hypertensive patients, AGE supplementation resulted in a mean SBP reduction of 5.0 mmHg compared to placebo over 12 weeks. In a subgroup of “responders” (50-60% of participants), the reduction was even more dramatic, with an average SBP decrease of 11.5 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) decrease of 6.3 mmHg compared to placebo [2].
A 2012 dose-response trial published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that “aged garlic extract to be an effective and tolerable treatment in uncontrolled hypertension, and may be considered as a safe adjunct treatment to conventional antihypertensive therapy” [3].
- The Verdict: Aged Garlic Extract is a well-supported, evidence-based supplement for managing high blood pressure. Its effects are clinically significant and it can be used as a standalone treatment or as an adjunct to conventional antihypertensive medications.
Dosage and Usage
The effective dose of AGE for blood pressure reduction has been established in clinical trials.
- For Blood Pressure: A daily dose of 480 mg of Aged Garlic Extract, containing 1.2 mg of S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC), has been shown to be an effective dose for significantly reducing systolic blood pressure [3]. Doses in clinical trials have ranged from 240 mg to 2400 mg per day [1, 3].
- Administration: It is generally recommended to take AGE with a meal to improve tolerability [1]. The 480 mg dose is typically delivered in two capsules per day [3].
Safety and Precautions
Aged Garlic Extract is generally well-tolerated and has a high safety profile, with a low incidence of side effects.
- General Safety: The most commonly reported side effects are mild and gastrointestinal in nature [1]. The aging process removes the compounds that typically cause garlic breath and body odor.
- Blood Thinners: As with other garlic preparations, AGE may have mild blood-thinning properties. Individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (e.g., warfarin, aspirin) should consult with their healthcare provider before taking AGE, as it may potentially increase the risk of bleeding. It is also not recommended before surgery [1].
- Long-Term Safety: While short-term trials (up to 12 weeks) have shown good safety, longer-term safety data is still needed to establish the safety profile over extended periods of use [1].
