Garlic: Superstition and Fact

Can superstition have a basis in fact? When the ancients ascribed a magical meaning to an item, had they observed some real world results?  Modern skeptics would have us believe that superstition is merely the product of primitive fears; is it possible that superstition is a window into higher knowledge?

Take garlic, for instance.  We now know that it can protect us against heart disease.  It can act as an antiseptic, guarding against sore throats, colds, earaches, and intestinal worms (garlic enema, anyone?).  Modern science has shown us that garlic has some very real health benefits.  The ancients weren't oblivious to this.  During the building of the Giza pyramids, the slaves received daily rations of garlic to protect against disease.  Roman soldiers consumed garlic for courage and strength.  We've all heard that garlic will protect against vampires, however many cultures believe it will ward off all evil spirits as well.  Sailors would carry garlic to prevent drowning.  Palestinian grooms would wear a clove of garlic to ensure success on the first night of marriage.  The ancient Greeks would leave garlic at the crossroads, to appease Hecete, and cause evil spirits to lose their way.

Not all cultures saw this plant as benevolent and protective.  An Islamic myth states that wherever Satan walked, garlic would grow from the print of his left foot, and onions from his right.  The Buddhists believe that garlic is a detriment to meditation, as it encourages sexual and aggressive impulses.  As someone who has participated in group meditation, I can say that any strong smell can be detrimental to meditation.  (Dude with the crotch sweat, this means you.)

The strong smell may have prompted the superstitions against garlic.  Allicin, a compound released when garlic is cut or crushed, has been known to cause anaphylaxis.  As with many medicinal products, the benefits outweigh the risks.  Perhaps our ancestors saw those health benefits and thought it would be a useful protector in other situations.  Superstition can be fueled by fact, garlic is just the yummiest example.