Aged Garlic Extract
Aged garlic extract supporting cardiovascular and immune health.
By Suplagen Team · Updated
What it is
Aged garlic extract (AGE) is produced by aging raw garlic for 20+ months, converting harsh compounds into stable, bioavailable S-allyl cysteine.
How it works
S-allyl cysteine provides antioxidant protection; modulates nitric oxide for vasodilation; inhibits cholesterol synthesis enzymes.
What the evidence says
Moderate evidence for blood pressure and cholesterol reduction; well-studied for cardiovascular health.
How much to take
The catalog range is 600 to 1,200 mg daily, and 1,200 mg is the ceiling. Aged garlic extract is the studied form; Kyolic is the brand most trials used.
The evidence is moderate for blood pressure and cholesterol reduction, unusually solid for a botanical, which is why it ranks second in our heart health guide.
When and how to take it
With food, once daily. The aged extract is odorless and gentler on the stomach than raw garlic.
One firm rule: stop it 7 to 10 days before any surgery, because it affects bleeding.
Who should skip it
Bleeding disorders are a caution, and upcoming surgery means stopping in advance. Interactions: anticoagulants (moderate), the HIV protease inhibitor saquinavir (high severity), and blood pressure medications (mild; the effects add). Safe in pregnancy.
Safety Notes
- Discontinue 7-10 days before surgery. Aged garlic extract (Kyolic brand) is the most studied form.
- Use caution with: bleeding disorders (caution), upcoming surgery (discontinue 7-10 days before).
- anticoagulants: Garlic has antiplatelet effects; may increase bleeding risk.
- HIV protease inhibitors (saquinavir): Garlic significantly reduces saquinavir levels; avoid.
- blood pressure medications: Additive blood pressure lowering; monitor.
Common questions
How much aged garlic extract should I take?
600 to 1,200 mg daily with food. 1,200 mg is the ceiling.
Does garlic extract lower blood pressure?
The evidence is moderate for blood pressure and cholesterol reduction. If you already take blood pressure medication, the effects add, so mention it to your doctor.
Do I need to stop garlic before surgery?
Yes, 7 to 10 days before. It affects bleeding, and the catalog lists upcoming surgery as a reason to discontinue.