Ajoene

PhytochemicalOrganosulfurBest with a meal

What is it

Ajoene is an organosulfur compound formed when crushed garlic (Allium sativum) is dissolved in certain solvents. It is one of the bioactive transformation products of allicin and is investigated for cardiovascular and antimicrobial effects.

How it works

Ajoene has shown antiplatelet, antithrombotic, antimicrobial, and antifungal activity in laboratory and animal studies. It can inhibit platelet aggregation by interfering with integrin function and may have direct effects on lipid metabolism. Human clinical evidence specific to ajoene is limited because it is not the major garlic transformation product in typical consumption. Most clinical research on garlic uses standardized whole-bulb extracts.

Dosage

There is no established daily intake recommendation for isolated ajoene. Garlic extract supplements vary; aged garlic extract is typically dosed at 600 to 1,200 mg per day.

When and how to take it

Garlic supplements can be taken with meals. Time of day is not critical. Stop high-dose garlic at least 1 week before surgery.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Garlic extract (ajoene-containing)

Most clinical research uses whole garlic extracts rather than isolated ajoene.

Ajoene formed in lipid solvents; concentrations vary by extraction.

Safety

Garlic is widely consumed and generally well tolerated. Concentrated extracts can cause gastrointestinal upset, body odor, and bad breath. Antiplatelet effects of ajoene-containing extracts may matter at high doses.

Who should be cautious

People on anticoagulants, scheduled for surgery within 2 weeks, or with bleeding disorders should consult a clinician before high-dose garlic supplementation. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are usually safe at food intake.

Interactions

May increase bleeding risk when combined with warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, or other anticoagulants/antiplatelets. May reduce levels of certain HIV protease inhibitors.

Food sources

Fresh crushed garlic

Amount
1 clove
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is ajoene the main garlic active?⌄

Allicin and its transformation products (including ajoene, vinyldithiins, and S-allyl-cysteine) all contribute. Different garlic preparations emphasize different actives.

Will garlic supplements thin my blood?⌄

High doses can have mild antiplatelet effects, which matters most for people on anticoagulants or facing surgery. Normal culinary intake is generally not a concern.

References

Ajoene on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ajoene (ChEBI:80708) — ChEBI link

Ajoene (PubChem CID 5386591) — PubChem link

Ajoene on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ajoene (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Ajoene with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.