The effectiveness of garlic (Allium sativum) extract in improving fatigue and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS): a randomized single-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Abstract

Background and purpose: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system. Fatigue is one of the most common and disabling symptoms of MS. Garlic is a plant whose anti-fatigue effects have been shown. The present study aimed to investigate the potential effectiveness of garlic on fatigue and quality of life in MS patients.

Experimental approach: In a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, adult MS patients were randomly divided into two groups: of drug (garlic) group and a placebo. The drug group received 400-mg tablets of garlic extract (equivalent to 1,200 μg of allicin) twice a day for 4 weeks, while the patients in the placebo group received placebo tablets at the same frequency and duration. Before and after the intervention, scores on a 36-item survey form (SF-36) and fatigue severity scale (FSS) questionnaires were recorded for all patients and compared between the groups.

Findings/results: Garlic consumption was significantly associated with an increase in energy/fatigue, pain, general health, and physical health subscales scores at the end of the intervention compared to the placebo group. The scores of FSS were significantly reduced in both groups; however, the change in the drug group was remarkably higher than in the placebo group.

Conclusion and implications: Garlic extract promotes fatigue and improves the quality of life in MS patients. Therefore, garlic can be considered a potential remedy to overcome fatigue and improve the quality of life in these patients.