This Vegetable Doubled As A Medical Staple On WWII Battlefields - Tasting Table
Briefly

Garlic has been recognized for its medicinal properties since as early as 2700 B.C., used across various cultures to treat ailments. Its antibacterial properties were confirmed in the mid-19th century. During both World Wars, garlic served as an occasional antiseptic, although others like iodine and carbolic acid were more commonly used. Penicillin overshadowed garlic's efficacy post-discovery, yet it retained its reputation, especially among Russian soldiers in WWII, as a less effective alternative, earning the title "Russian penicillin."
Garlic was first scientifically demonstrated to have antibacterial properties in the mid-19th century, illustrating its long-standing role in medicinal applications throughout history.
During World War I and II, garlic served as an occasional antiseptic among medical officers, despite being eclipsed by more effective remedies like penicillin.
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