Old Name - Anti Plague Garlic s medicinal value is largely in its highly volatile essential oil, so be careful in its preparation. Anciently it was used in both healing and nutrition, as it was known to build physical strength and energy. It is a valuable nervine tonic and is especially useful in lowering hypertension; laboratory tests have proven this. It equalizes blood circulation, and it is a useful expectorant for all respiratory affections and infections.