On Sat, 13 Sep 2003 11:32:57 GMT, Frogleg wrote:


JNJ wrote:

There's a product out there called "Mosquito Barrier"
(http://www.mosquitobarrier.com) that purports to effectively stink skeeters
out of your yard. This is done by using a garlic extract

Why is garlic so often ascribed magical properties? We all know it
repels vampires, of course. Maybe, as an edible substance, its powers
are a version of "if it makes your life more difficult, it must be
good for you." It seems to me that any medicinal benefits could only
be achieved by eating a vast quantity every day. I have it on
anecdotal authority that "odorless" garlic supplements *do* produce a
great deal of offensive odor. *People* find garlic breath or
perspiration offensive, but why should we think animals or insects are
similarly affected? We also find garlic enticing and include it, both
raw and cooked, in many recipes.


Indeed, it is a strong herb. I have a row planted in front of my
rose bushes to help with the aphids. I have been taking taking garlic
capsules for 20 years to help reduce cholesterol. If this actually
helps or not I'm not sure (there's no substitute for regular
exercise). Personally, I do not find the odor of garlic nearly as
offensive as tobacco odor. There's a biblical story that tells when
Satan walked on the earth, garlic grew from whereever he stepped. I
use garlic powder (careful--a little goes a long way) in many dishes,
including homemade pizza. In some cases it makes a vegetarian dish
taste like it contains meat.