What is the difference between male and regular garlic?

In the culinary and medicinal diversity of the world, He garlic It is an essential ingredient in many cultures. However, within the universe of garlic, there is a distinction that perhaps not everyone knows: difference between male garlic and normal garlic.

This topic, although seemingly simple, contains interesting nuances that are worth exploring. First of all, it is important to know what exactly garlic is and what its role is in gastronomy and health.

Scientifically known as Allium sativumGarlic is a bulbous plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family.

Native to Central Asia, it has been used since ancient times both as a condiment in cooking and in popular medicine for its healing properties.

Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds, vitamins and minerals and are attributed numerous health benefits, including its contribution to reducing cholesterol, improving the immune system and preventing cardiovascular disease. Now, what differentiates male garlic from regular garlic?

Difference between male and regular garlic

Although there are varieties of garlic that differ in flavor, size, color, and growth characteristics, the main distinction between regular, or female, garlic and male garlic lies in the the size and shape of the bulbs.

Normal garlic is characterized by having smaller and more numerous bulbs, with a more elongated and pointed shape. On the other hand, male garlic, also called elephant garlic, is distinguished by having larger and fewer teeth (sometimes even just one), with a more rounded and flattened shapeexplains the portal Mexican garlic.

These morphological differences affect the flavor and culinary use of each type of garlic. Regular garlic usually has a more intense and spicy flavourwhile male garlic tends to be softer and sweeter.

In cooking, female garlic is widely used in dishes that require a more pronounced flavor, such as stews, sauces and marinades. On the other hand, male garlic is preferred in recipes where a more delicate and less dominant flavor is sought, such as salads, dressings and grilled dishes.

In addition to differences in flavor and appearance, male garlic and regular garlic can also vary in terms of its nutritional content and medicinal properties. Although both types of garlic are rich in sulfur compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, some studies suggest that male garlic would have a slightly higher content of these compounds due to its larger size.

Male garlic ritual for protection and abundance

According to the portal GastrolabIn Latin America, especially in Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru, male garlic is also used in popular rituals as garlic protection amulet and also in traditional indigenous medicine against evil eye and witchcraft.

Here, the step by step of a male garlic ritual what the site offers Santa Fe Air

What is needed: Neutral soap, holy water, one male garlic, Florida lotion, one personal perfume, one red ribbon, one male or purple garlic candle, one plate lined with aluminum foil, three coins of the same denomination, three banknotes of different denominations , two glasses with water, ground cinnamon and a red bag.

How to do it:

1) Wash with neutral soap and apply holy water before dressing.

2) Sprinkle the male garlic with Florida lotion and personal perfume, and pass it over the body three times asking for protection and abundance.

3) Apply the perfume on the banknotes and also pass them all over the body asking that there is no lack of money and stability and that abundance arrives. Then, place them in one of the glasses with water.

3) Wet the red ribbon with Florida lotion and personal perfume and tie it around your left ankle or wrist, tying three knots (you will need to hold it until it falls, at which point it should be burned).

4) Place the male garlic (or violet) candle in the center of the plate lined with aluminum foil. Add the Florida lotion and place the coins around the candle forming a triangle. Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on each plate and a few drops of personal perfume.

5) Light the male garlic candle while reciting prayers such as the Our Father and Hail Mary, invoking the help of angels to attract abundance and protection.

6) Bring the other glass of water closer to the plate. Change the water in the glass placed near the plate every day, throwing it out into the street and replacing it with clean water, until the candle is completely consumed.

7. Once the candle has gone out, dry it and keep the banknotes together with the coins in a red bag which will be a personal protection amulet. It must be carried with you at all times.

8) To conclude the ritual, wrap the used garlic in aluminum foil and throw it away from the house.