Garlic is a staple spice found in almost every kitchen. Most households keep a few bulbs on hand for quick and easy use in daily cooking. It enhances the flavor of meals and offers a host of health benefits.

When preparing garlic, we usually discard the outer skins and only use the cloves inside. However, garlic skins also hold a surprising amount of value and can be repurposed in several useful ways.

1. A Natural Supplement for Poultry

If you raise animals like chickens, ducks, or geese, consider adding garlic skins to their feed. These skins are rich in protein and contain allicin—an active compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Allicin can help boost the immune system of your poultry, making them healthier overall.

2. An Effective Fertilizer for Plants and Flowers

Growing flowers and decorative plants is a relaxing and rewarding hobby for many people. A few green pots around the home can liven up your space, improve air quality, and provide a peaceful atmosphere after a stressful day.

Caring for plants doesn’t need to be complicated. The essentials are daily watering and regular fertilizing to help them grow strong and bloom beautifully. You can use household scraps like fruit peels, eggshells, and garlic skins to nourish your plants naturally.

Garlic skins are loaded with potassium, phosphorus, and other nutrients essential for plant growth. Just bury them in the soil and allow them to break down gradually, enriching the soil in the process. The garlic scent can also deter pests and insects that may damage your plants.

3. A Soothing Addition to Foot Soaks

After a long day on your feet, soaking in warm water is a simple way to unwind. Doing this regularly can ease fatigue, improve circulation, warm up your body, and help manage blood pressure.

You can make your foot soak even more effective by adding garlic skins. The allicin they contain offers antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Plus, a garlic skin soak can also help reduce unpleasant foot odor.

4. A Natural Way to Remove Shoe Odors

Garlic skins, especially when dried, are excellent at soaking up moisture and neutralizing odors. Thanks to the presence of allicin, they also help combat bacteria, making them a great natural option for dealing with smelly shoes.

After wearing shoes all day, sweat can build up, creating the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria. Placing a handful of garlic skins inside your shoes and leaving them overnight will help absorb excess moisture and eliminate bad smells.

Rather than tossing garlic skins in the trash, try putting them to good use around your home. They’re an easy, eco-friendly way to care for your plants, poultry, and even your feet.