Any type of inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain or spinal cord can be deadly, and meningitis is not a medical condition to take lightly. Bacterial, viral or fungal infections can all cause meningitis, but garlic, as always, can play a key role in the natural treatment of this health issue. Garlic has potent antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial properties, primarily due to the presence of allicin, garlic’s active ingredient. Garlic supplements or regular consumption can protect the body against the infection, and also help treat it or speed the healing if the infection is contracted.