Garlic in Myth and Folklore

We all know that garlic keeps those pesky vampires away but according to legend, garlic was used to ward off all sorts of nasties. Demons and werewolves too could be held in abeyance with the judicious use of a clove or two. The name ‘allium’ is in fact linked to an ancient Celtic word, all, which meant ‘monster slayer’, confirming that this vegetable was used to ward off evil spirits, vampires and witches. Considered a precious amulet, garlic took on a very important role as a good luck charm, so much so that it was given to those in difficulty.