A randomized, Double-blind Clinical Trial of the Three-month Effect of Garlic Administration on Cardiac Outcomes in Patients with Heart Failure

Garlic may have anti-oxidanmayti-hypertensive and anti-hyperlipidemic properties. However, the effects of its administration on cardiac function in heart failure (HF) patients impact require further investigation. We aimed to evaluate garlic prescription effects on cardiac outcomes and quality of life scores in Iranian HF patients.

From August to December 2020, a randomized, double-blind clinical trial was conducted. Individuals with heart failure (New York heart association (NYHA) functional class of II and III) referred to private clinics in Isfahan, Iran, were randomly assigned to intervention (n=80) and control (n=80) groups. They have received 500 mg of odorless garlic tablets or the same shape and dosage of placebo twice daily for three months. Laboratory data, cardiac outcomes (end-diastolic diameter, ventricular septal thickness, NYHA functional class, left ventricular ejection fraction), quality of life score (Minnesota living with HF questionnaire), and the Modified Borg Scale (MBS) were all evaluated at the baseline and the end of the trial.

The population’s mean age was 58.1±13.5 years (55% males). Patients who consumed garlic had remarkably improved functional class compared to placebo takers and their baseline (NYHA practical class of II, 79.4% vs. 50.6%, P<0.001 and 79.4% vs. 54%, P=0.006, respectively). MBS levels were significantly lower among garlic consumers (baseline: 2.52±0.5, after three months: 2.2±1.06, P= 0.040).

Garlic administration may improve cardiac function and breathe in HF patients. Complementary research is necessary to confirm our findings.