Therapeutic Applications of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Essential Oil: A Review on Different Extraction Methods and Characterization on Its Bioactive Compound

Garlic's sharp bite has always promised more than flavor—hidden within its essential oil are diallyl sulfides, tiny molecules with a powerful therapeutic punch against microbes, inflammation, and even cancer.

For centuries, garlic has been more than a kitchen staple. Its essential oil, known as ASEO, is a treasure trove of bioactive compounds. This review dives into how the way we extract that oil changes what we get, and what that means for medicine.

The method matters. From traditional hydrodistillation and steam distillation to modern techniques like microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) and supercritical fluid CO₂ extraction, each approach shapes the oil's chemical profile. Yet, despite this variation, one family of compounds consistently dominates: diallyl sulfides (DAS) and their derivatives.

These sulfides are the workhorses behind ASEO's remarkable activities—antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. However, the review doesn't shy away from hurdles. Some compounds raise toxicity concerns, and ASEO's poor bioavailability and physical stability limit its real-world use.

The path forward is clear: greener extraction methods and encapsulation technology. These innovations could stabilize and deliver ASEO more effectively, unlocking its full therapeutic potential for future treatments.

Key Points

• Diallyl sulfides dominate ASEO's bioactive profile.
• Extraction method alters oil's chemical composition.
• Encapsulation and green methods are future priorities.