The latest research on an aged garlic extract (AGE) marketed as Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract by Wakunaga of America was presented at the Seventh International Garlic Symposium held in Munich.

The event, which convenes at different locations every five years, gathers leading researchers from around the globe to present findings on garlic and its constituents  as a preventative measure to promote health. More than 150 food chemists, nutritionists, pharmacists, medical doctors, research scholars, and other professionals were present to hear more about the relationship between garlic and cardiovascular health, neurological health, immunity, inflammation, and oral health.

“Garlic has been a trusted remedy for centuries, addressing ailments from heart disease to respiratory disorders,” said Matthew J. Budoff, MD, International Garlic Symposium co-chair, professor of medicine, and endowed chair of preventive cardiology at UCLA. “Today, our research underscores the exceptional potency of garlic supplements like Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract. AGE significantly enhances immune function and dramatically improves heart health, reversing early heart disease and reducing the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Recent studies presented at the symposium also show promise in boosting cognitive function and enhancing recovery and performance in endurance athletes.”

The symposium featured 22 basic and clinical studies, alongside 20 abstracts, in the poster sessions. Budoff’s study concluded that Kyolic AGE supplementation can slow arterial plaque by 80%, reduce soft plaque, and reverse components of atherosclerosis, suggesting its potential preventive role in promoting cardiovascular health.

Several unpublished studies were featured, which included findings on several health outcomes.

One study enhanced present understanding of the potential role of AGE in supporting cystic fibrosis.

Another linked supplementation with improved aerobic fitness among middle-aged endurance athletes.

AGE was also associated with cognitive function improvements related to short-term memory and reaction time.

In patients with atherosclerosis, AGE was linked to improvement of circulatory health, via greater peripheral tissue perfusion.

Finally, a study was included which provided new insights into how AGE may promote periodontal health in humans and pets.

“Backed by science’ is more than a slogan we use at Wakunaga,” said Michael Modjeski, chief commercial officer at Wakunaga. “It represents our dedication to the continuous discovery of the numerous health benefits our supplements, including Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract, provide, and underscores our position as a leader in aged garlic extract research and development.”

In a conversation with Nutraceuticals World, Budoff discussed where the portfolio of research on Kyolic AGE stands in the context of research on garlic and other ingredients for its supported cardiovascular health benefits.

“We have extensively studied Kyolic’s Aged Garlic Extract in six studies to date. We have consistently demonstrated health benefits in inflammation, plaque (atherosclerosis) progression, blood vessel health (endothelial function), blood pressure, and cholesterol. The findings in six randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human studies are consistent with studies from around the world and other investigators,” Budoff said.

By aging garlic, not only is odor eliminated, but so are oxidants, giving it a more well-tolerated profile and more consistent effects as a dietary supplement, as the aging process helps purify garlic’s beneficial compounds.   

“Kyolic AGE is rich in highly bioavailable water-soluble sulfur compounds and antioxidants including s-allyl cysteine (SAC) and s-1-propenylcysteine (S1PC), which are considered to be the main bioactive compounds in AGE responsible for conveying benefits to cardiovascular and circulatory health,” Budoff said. “The consistency and purity of AGE is far superior to other products and dietary supplements containing garlic. Thus, it is ideal for use in clinical studies and for my clinical patients, as it is odorless, reliable, and has minimal side effects, so it is well tolerated.”

In total, “there are more than 900 published scientific papers over the past 50 years on aged garlic extract, so it is one of the most extensively studied compounds in cardiovascular health today,” said Budoff.