Does Garlic Increase Testosterone Levels? (Science-Based) 

Garlic plays an essential role in raising testosterone levels because it has sulfur-containing organic compounds known as allyl derivatives, including alliin, allicin, S-allyl cysteine, and diallyl disulfide [1].

Studies show that allicin, one allyl derivative, can increase energy levels and decrease cortisol levels [2,3].

Research suggests that its use dates back to ancient Greek cultures when Olympic athletes began using it to improve athletic ability. Today, athletes and non-athletes alike are using it to minimize exercise-induced fatigue [4].

Another study in 2019 found that aged garlic extract can suppress psychological stress by regulating stress hormone cortisol and oxidative stress response in the brain [5].

Cortisol, which is overly produced by our adrenal glands during stressful situations, impacts other bodily functions, including testosterone production.

By consuming garlic regularly, you can lower cortisol levels, increase energy, and altogether cause your testicles to produce more testosterone.

Garlic can also help with Low T in the following ways:

A study on the consumption of 0.8 g/100 g garlic increased testicular testosterone while decreasing plasma corticosterone in rats fed with a high protein food [11].

Also, a 2006 human study conducted by the Pharmaceutical Research Institute of Albany suggests that taking 2.5 g of this spice every day can give a 100 percent increase in nitric oxide (NO).

Furthermore, everyday consumption of 2.0 g combined with vitamin C intake increases NO levels by 200 percent.

"Nitric oxide is a gas that the body produces, and it helps with blood flow. Nitric oxide supplements try to increase the amount of nitric oxide in your blood, which might help increase blood flow to working muscles and help reduce time to fatigue during a workout,"

- Natalie Rizzo, Registered Dietitian

Taking the recommended dosage for garlic will substantially increase your NO levels, which are needed to improve muscular development and T levels.

Garlic is linked to many health benefits, but primarily for lowering risk factors to prevent diseases and promote a longer life span.

It's also high in nutrition and antioxidants, which can help strengthen the immune system.

Other health benefits include: 

Inflammation - Like other allium vegetables, garlic contains high levels of the anti-inflammatory substance diallyl sulfides, limiting the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines [15].

Also, it has antioxidant properties that help to eradicate free radicals. The S-allyl cysteine has been shown to inhibit free radicals and enhance erectile function in people with low T.

Muscle Building - Raw garlic can raise nitric oxide (NO) levels, which contribute to vasodilation, vital in delivering nutrients and oxygen to muscles during your workout routine.

One animal study found that garlic can elevate nitric oxide levels by up to 40% within an hour of consumption [16].

Fat-burning - Evidence suggests that belly fat accumulates with age and naturally lowers T levels.

Garlic has been shown to enhance metabolism, increase energy levels, suppress appetite, and help you burn more calories. It is also a powerful detoxifier and garlic can help you lose belly fat that may help increase T levels [17].

Chronic Diseases - Garlic extracts aids in the control of glucose and lipid levels, thus helping in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and cholesterol problems.

In a 2011 study, garlic supplement was shown to substantially improve the efficacy of conventional hypoglycemic medications for diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome.

It has also been shown to help regulate total cholesterol, triglycerides, and harmful cholesterol levels in humans, thereby inhibiting the development of arterial plaque [18].

However, it is best to seek a health specialist to provide medical advice and ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.