Along with its well-earned reputation for discouraging friends and repelling vampires, this powerful herb has a storied culinary and medical history. Egyptian pyramid builders took it for strength and endurance. Medieval healers recommended it as protection against supernatural forces.

The French scientist Louis Pasteur investigated its antibacterial properties, and doctors in the two World Wars treated battle wounds with garlic juice when other drugs were unavailable. Most recently, garlic has been touted for heart health as well.

A member of the family that also includes onions and scallions, garlic (Allium sativum) imparts a distinctive flavor and aroma when used in cooking. Its healing powers are concentrated in the most odiferous part of the plant and the one that is also used in the kitchen--the bulb.

North Carolina Garlic Growers/Shipper List

Cooling/Storage Requirements of North Carolina Garlic