Garlic May Not Be Worth the Risk

By Juliet M. Getty, Ph.D.

Do you feed garlic to help keep the bugs away? The active ingredient in raw garlic is called allicin (also known as N-propyl disulfide) and can lead to Heinz Body anemia. Commercial products use a heat processing which supposedly destroys all of the damaging allicin, but also reduces  the insect-repelling properties. It's true that the strong odor will help keep bugs away, but most folks love the real smell of horses, and would not enjoy one that reeks of garlic.  Bottom line... the jury is still out on the long term safety of garlic-containing products. Until we know more, feeding garlic may not be worth the risk.

 



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