Garlic has been a fundamental plant in the history of humanity, Not only for its culinary and medicinal use, but also because of the deep symbolism he has acquired in different cultures. From ancient times, Garlic has been considered a powerful amulet against evil, a sacred offering and a protection symbol. It has been used in religious rituals, Purification ceremonies and even popular superstitions to move away evil spirits. In this article, We explore the role of garlic in mythology, Folklore and popular beliefs throughout history.

Garlic in mythology: A protection symbol

Garlic in Egyptian culture

The ancient Egyptians valued garlic not only as food, but also as a sacred element. Traces of garlic have been found in the tombs of the pharaohs, which indicates its importance in funeral practices and their relationship with protection in the other life. It is said that the slaves who built the pyramids received a diet rich in garlic to maintain their strength and resistance, which reinforces the idea that energizing and protective properties were attributed. Besides, It was used in reservoir rituals to preserve the bodies and ensure safe traffic to the beyond.

Garlic in Greek mythology

In Greek mythology, Garlic is associated with the history of Persephone and the underworld. It was believed that those who consumed garlic were protected from evil spirits and could travel between the world of the living and the dead without danger. Besides, Greek athletes consumed it before the powers to increase their resistance and strength. It is also said that Ulysses used garlic to protect against the spells of the goddess Circe, which reinforces his role as amulet against magic and evil. Another belief suggests that garlic had the ability to give courage to warriors in combat, So it was a key food in the soldiers' diet.

Garlic in Roman culture

The Romans also saw garlic as a protection symbol. Roman soldiers consumed it regularly to strengthen their body and spirit before battle. It was also common to place it in homes to avoid the entry of negative diseases and energies. His presence in temples and altars suggests that he had a relevant role in religious rituals. Additionally, In some regions of the Roman Empire, The garlic was placed at the gates of the stables to protect cattle from diseases and predators.

The history of garlic in South America

The history of garlic in South America is relatively short and after the arrival of Europeans. Unlike native crops such as potato or corn, The garlic (Allium sativum) It was not originally from the continent. Its introduction occurred during the Spanish colonization, mainly from the 16th century.

Next, Some key points in its history in South America:

• Introduction with colonizers: The Spaniards introduced garlic as part of their crops and provisions. Its use spread rapidly due to its medicinal and culinary properties, integrating into the diet and practices of diverse cultures.
• Adaptation and dissemination: Garlic adapted well to different climates and altitudes in South America, which facilitated its cultivation in various regions. Its propagation was given through different routes, including commercial exchanges and the expansion of colonial agriculture.
• Medicinal and culinary uses: Since his arrival, Garlic has been used both in traditional medicine and in the gastronomy of different South American countries. Properties were attributed to treat various ailments, And its intense flavor made it a popular ingredient in a wide variety of dishes.
• Variable cultural integration: While garlic was integrated into food and some practices of South American cultures, Its symbolic or mythological importance was not comparable to that of native plants. Its use was more incorporated into existing practices, adapting to local customs.
• Current production: Currently, Garlic is widely cultivated in several countries in South America, some of which even export it. Your production has diversified, adapting to market needs and preferences.

In summary, The history of garlic in South America is an introduction story, adaptation and assimilation to local cultures, But without the deep mythological or symbolic roots that other plants from the continent have. Its history is rather one of incorporation into everyday life, To gastronomy and traditional medicine.

Garlic in folklore: Uses and traditions

Garlic as amulet against the evil eye

Throughout Europe and the Mediterranean, Garlic has been used as a protective amulet against the evil eye. Garlic braids were hung on the doors of the houses and stables to move away evil spirits and envy. In some cultures, It is believed that rubbing a clove of garlic in the skin protects against negative influences and diseases. This practice extended to many parts of the world, And even today, Some people place garlic under the pillow to remove nightmares and guarantee a quiet dream.

Garlic and vampires

One of the most widespread beliefs in popular culture is the use of garlic as a defense against vampires. This idea, popularized in literature and cinema, has roots in the traditions of Eastern Europe, where garlic was placed in the windows and around the necks of the children to protect them from the non-women. It was believed that his strong smell was unbearable for night creatures, preventing them from approaching their victims. This superstition was strengthened in the nineteenth century with the publication of “Dracker” BRAM STOKER, where garlic plays a crucial role in the fight against vampires.

Rituals and festivities with garlic

In some cultures, Garlic is used in purification and good luck rituals. In agricultural festivities, Garlic is sown as an offering to Earth, looking for prosperous harvests and pest protection. In Spain, Some festivities include the blessing of garlic to guarantee its protective efficacy. In India, It is believed that consuming garlic in certain days of the lunar calendar can attract good fortune and remove disease. Besides, In certain regions of Mexico, Garlic is used in shamanic ceremonies to clean people's aura and eliminate negative energies.

Garlic symbolism: Of fertility protection

Garlic has symbolized health, fertility and protection throughout history. In ancient China, It was used in traditional medicine to strengthen the body and prolong life. In India, It was considered a food that strengthened vigor and protected against diseases. It has also been used in esoteric practices to attract love and improve energy at home.

In Arab culture, Aphrodisiac properties are attributed and in some regions of Europe, garlic was placed under the pillow of the newlyweds to guarantee fertility. Besides, Its use in popular medicine has been constant over the centuries, From home remedies to healing infusions to treat various ailments. At the moment, Black garlic has gained popularity for its additional benefits, and its use in modern cuisine has transcended borders.

Other curiosities about garlic in popular culture

• In the Middle Ages, Doctors used masks impregnated with garlic to protect themselves from the plague.
• In some African traditions, Garlic is incorporated into rituals to expel negative energies.
• In Japan, Ajo -based energy drinks have been developed, Taking advantage of its revitalizing properties.
• Currently, Black garlic has acquired recognition in gourmet cuisine and alternative medicine due to its high antioxidant content and its unique flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic is not just a basic ingredient in the kitchen, but also an element loaded with history, Mythology and symbolism. From the Egyptian pyramids to vampire legends, Garlic has played a fundamental role in different cultures. Its protective power is still in force in many traditions around the world, and its use in gastronomy and medicine continues to evolve over time.

Are you interested in knowing more about garlic?

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FUENTES

1. Garlic in Egyptian antiquity:
   • García, L. (1999). Food in ancient Egypt. Ed. Mediterranean.
   • Nunn, J. F. (2002). Ancient Egyptian Medicine. University of Oklahoma Press.
2. Garlic in Greek and Roman mythology:
   • Dalby, A. (2003). Food in the Ancient World from A to Z. Routledge.
   • Wilkins, J., & Hill, S. (2006). Food in the Ancient World. Wiley-Blackwell.
3. Garlic in folklore and superstitions:
   • Dundes, A. (1997). The Vampire: A Casebook. University of Wisconsin Press.
   • Barber, P. (1988). Vampires, Burial, and Death: Folklore and Reality. Yale University Press.
4. Garlic properties and uses in traditional medicine:
   • Block, E. (2010). Garlic and Other Alliums: The Lore and the Science. Royal Society of Chemistry.
   • Rivlin, R. S. (2001). Historical perspective on the use of garlic. The Journal of Nutrition, 131(3), 951S-954S.
5. Black garlic and its benefits:
   • Kimura, S., Tung, Y. C., Pan, M. H., Are, N. W., & In order, Y. J. (2017). Black garlic: A critical review of its production, bioactivity, and application. Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 25(1), 62-70.
   • Martínez, R. (2019). Black garlic and its properties. FOOD AND HEALTH MAGAZINE, 45(2), 30-35.