Fact check: Does Priyanka Chopra’s nuskha of rubbing garlic on feet really work against inflammation?

While filming her latest movie The Bluff in Australia, Priyanka Chopra has been juggling action on set with downtime with her husband Nick Jonas, and daughter Malti Marie. On social media, Priyanka shared a glimpse of her experiences down under, including heartwarming family photos and, to fans’ surprise, a video of her receiving a garlic foot rub.

The garlic treatment sparked curiosity among her followers with comments ranging from “What’s the garlic for?” to explanations of its potential anti-inflammatory properties. One concerned fan even asked, “Are you alright? What happened?”

We talked to G Sushma, Clinical Dietician, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, to understand whether rubbing garlic on one’s skin can actually work against inflammation.

 

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The power of diallyl disulfide

Research suggests that garlic might hold some truth when it comes to fighting inflammation. It contains a compound called diallyl disulfide, which can help reduce the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines – molecules that trigger inflammation. This means topical application of garlic on sore joints or muscles might offer some relief, said Sushma.

Additionally, garlic may prevent the production of inflammatory substances and reduce overall inflammatory activity.

A word of caution

However, before incorporating garlic foot rubs into your routine, a patch test is crucial. Apply a small amount of garlic paste to your inner elbow and wait 24 hours to check for any irritation, Sushma warned.

 

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It’s also important to consult a healthcare professional before using garlic for inflammation, especially if you have any underlying skin conditions or take medications.

Beyond garlic: Natural anti-inflammatory allies

While the science on garlic remains inconclusive, there are other natural remedies with established anti-inflammatory properties:

Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber carbohydrates can significantly reduce inflammation.

Turmeric and Ginger: These common kitchen staples are powerhouses of anti-inflammatory compounds. You can consume them in various forms, including fresh, powdered, or as herbal tea.

Green Tea: Another excellent source of antioxidants, green tea can help combat inflammation.

Inflammation is a double-edged sword. It’s your body’s natural defense mechanism against injuries, infections, and foreign invaders. While acute (short-term) inflammation helps with healing, chronic (long-term) inflammation can damage healthy tissues and contribute to various diseases.

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