Although garlic is believed to have health-promoting benefits, many of the claimed benefits are not supported by good scientific studies. This review critically examined current scientific literature concerning claims of cardiovascular benefits from regular consumption of garlic or garlic preparations. The vast majority of recent randomized, placebo-controlled studies do not support a role for garlic in lowering blood lipids. There also is insufficient evidence to support a role in reducing blood pressure. While there have been indications of antiatherosclerotic effects associated with garlic consumption, there are insufficient data in humans. Investigation of antithrombotic effects of garlic consumption appears to hold promise, but too few data exist to draw firm conclusions.