[Treatment of ascaridiasis with garlic (Allium sativum)]

In Brazil, there has been growing interest on alternative therapeutic approaches, as shown by asi increase of homeopathic prescriptions, and use of acupuncture and of the so called natural products. This study evaluated the usefulness of garlic (Allium sativum) for the treatment of ascaridiasis, trying to confirm the popular belief on this matter. Eight grams daily, as an infusion were used during five days, in children known to be infected with Ascaris lumbricoides. Little efficacy was observed, and this fact enhances the importance of not accepting propositions not based on adequately conducted studies.