Garlic may help beat MRSA 'superbug'

London, June 10 : An ingredient in garlic is the latest weapon in the battle to fight the hospital 'superbug' MRSA, according to researchers at the University of East London.

They claim to have found that allicin, a natural compound that gives garlic its distinctive smell, can cure patients suffering from the antibiotic-resistant infection.

Trial conducted with 52 patients, who took allicin capsules or sprayed a liquid on to their wounds, recovered fully within four to 12 weeks.

"This is a breakthrough in the fight against MRSA," the Mirror quoted lead author Dr Ron Cutler, of the University of East London, as saying.

Derek Butler, of the charity MRSA Action UK, said: "We welcome any new developments in the fight against infection."

ANI