What it does
This medicine is an extract that is used for various health conditions.
Commonly used for: general health improvement, nutritional support
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:42 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:05
About extract
This medicine is an extract that is used for various health conditions.
What it treats
- general health improvement
- nutritional support
How it works
The extract may provide health benefits by supplying essential nutrients or compounds that support bodily functions.
Who it's for
This medicine is suitable for individuals looking to improve their overall health or address specific nutritional needs.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About garlic
Garlic is a natural remedy often used for its potential health benefits, particularly for heart health.
What it treats
- high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- common cold
- boosting the immune system
How it works
Garlic may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and support the immune system.
Who it's for
Garlic is for adults looking for natural ways to support their heart health and immunity.
Cautions
- • May cause stomach upset or bad breath in some people.
- • People on blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: extract
Extracts are concentrated preparations obtained from plants, herbs, or other natural sources through various extraction methods such as solvent extraction, steam distillation, or cold pressing. They are used for their therapeutic properties in herbal medicine and can contain a variety of bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes, and essential oils. The specific effects and uses of an extract depend on its source material and the compounds it contains.
Indications
- General wellness support
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Antioxidant activity
- Digestive aid
- Support for immune function
Dosage
Children: Paediatric dosing should be determined based on the specific extract and its intended use. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for accurate dosing.
Adults: Dosage varies widely depending on the specific extract and formulation. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing.
Mechanism of action
The mechanism of action of herbal extracts can vary significantly based on their constituents. Commonly, they exert their effects through multiple pathways including modulation of neurotransmitter systems, interference with inflammatory processes, or direct antioxidant activity. Some extracts may activate certain receptors or inhibit enzymes related to disease processes.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of extracts is complex due to the presence of multiple active compounds which can have synergistic or antagonistic effects. These compounds may influence cellular signaling pathways, alter gene expression, or modulate immune response. The overall pharmacological profile is determined by the specific composition of the extract, its concentration, and the biological target it interacts with.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of extracts involves absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the active compounds. Generally, herbal extracts are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability influenced by factors such as formulation, the presence of food, and individual metabolic differences. Compounds may undergo hepatic metabolism, and elimination can occur through urine or feces, depending on their chemical nature.
Pregnancy
Consult a healthcare professional before use, as the safety of the extract during pregnancy has not been established.
Breast-feeding
Consult a healthcare professional before use, as the safety of the extract during breastfeeding has not been established.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: garlic
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a bulbous plant belonging to the Allium family, commonly used as a culinary ingredient and for its potential health benefits. It has a history of medicinal use dating back thousands of years and is believed to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Garlic is widely studied for its cardiovascular benefits, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as its potential role in cancer prevention.
Indications
- Hyperlipidemia
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular disease prevention
- Antimicrobial activity
- Antioxidant support
Dosage
Children: Refer to established guidelines and clinical recommendations
Adults: Refer to established guidelines and clinical recommendations, as specific dosages can vary widely based on the form of garlic used and the indication.
Mechanism of action
Garlic's health benefits are attributed primarily to its sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, which is formed when garlic is crushed or chopped. Allicin exhibits various biological activities, including the ability to inhibit various types of enzymes and modulate cellular signaling pathways. It has been shown to enhance the production of nitric oxide, leading to vasodilation and improved blood circulation. Additionally, garlic may exert antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals and enhancing the body's antioxidant defenses.
Pharmacodynamics
Garlic has been associated with a range of pharmacodynamic effects. It can reduce platelet aggregation, thereby lowering the risk of thrombosis. Garlic also modulates lipid metabolism, which may contribute to its cholesterol-lowering effects. Furthermore, it has anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit conditions such as arthritis. The bioactivity of garlic is influenced by factors such as preparation methods and the presence of certain phytochemicals.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of garlic compounds can vary significantly based on the form in which they are consumed (raw, cooked, aged extracts, etc.). Allicin is rapidly formed upon crushing garlic and can be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, though it is also quickly metabolized. The half-life of allicin is relatively short, leading to transient effects. Other compounds derived from garlic, such as ajoene and diallyl disulfide, may have longer-lasting effects in the body. Garlic is generally well-tolerated, but can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to garlic or any of its components
- Active bleeding disorders
- Scheduled surgery within 2 weeks
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Allergic reactions
- Bad breath
- Body odor
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Interactions
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) - may increase the risk of bleeding
- Antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin) - may enhance effects
- HIV medications (e.g., saquinavir) - may reduce effectiveness
- Cyclosporine - may decrease levels of cyclosporine
- Certain antidiabetic medications - may enhance hypoglycemic effects
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with bleeding disorders
- Discontinue use prior to surgical procedures
- Monitor for signs of increased bleeding if taken with anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents
Pregnancy
Garlic is generally considered safe in food amounts during pregnancy, but high doses should be avoided due to potential effects on blood clotting.
Breast-feeding
Garlic is likely safe in food amounts during breastfeeding, but high doses may cause gastrointestinal upset in infants.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Fresh garlic (Allium sativum)
- Garlic powder
- Garlic oil
- Garlic supplements (various preparations)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.
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