Garlic Soaked in Honey: A Natural Remedy with Numerous Health Benefits

With two common ingredients—garlic and honey—you can create a remedy that brings many health benefits.

The Benefits of Garlic Soaked in Honey

Cold weather often brings a variety of illnesses such as coughs, colds, and flu. To prevent these illnesses, it’s important not only to keep your body warm but also to consume nutritious foods. Among these, garlic soaked in honey is a traditional remedy that has been used for a long time by many people.

According to herbalist Vũ Quốc Trung (from the Traditional Medicine Clinic), garlic is a spice and medicinal herb that has been used for centuries. It has a pungent taste and contains essential oils, as well as vitamins A, E, B1, and B2. This spice stimulates digestion, detoxifies the body, expels phlegm, and has antibacterial properties.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), garlic is used to treat digestive disorders, respiratory inflammation, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Mr. Trung suggests consuming 5-15 grams of fresh garlic daily, as cooking garlic reduces its medicinal properties.

On the other hand, honey is a nutrient-rich food with a sweet taste, neutral properties, and is not hot. Its main components are glucose, sucrose, and fructose, along with enzymes, and vitamins A, B, D, and essential minerals. In TCM, honey is used as a general tonic for the body, to aid digestion, and to treat stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues.

Both garlic and honey have similar health benefits. When combined, they act as a powerful health tonic, enhancing overall wellness. It is recommended to consume around 15-20 grams of the garlic and honey mixture daily to boost health.

How to Make Garlic Soaked in Honey

Ingredients: Garlic, honey, a jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Instructions:

1. Peel the garlic, leaving the cloves whole or slicing them, depending on your preference.

2. Mix the garlic with honey (the honey should completely cover the garlic) and place it into the jar with a tight lid.

3. Store the jar in a cool place for about 15-20 days before using.

Best Time to Consume Garlic and Honey:

The best time to consume garlic soaked in honey is in the morning, right after waking up. You can take a spoonful of the mixture directly before breakfast or mix it with warm water to drink 15 minutes before eating.

You can also use this mixture in the evening, about one hour before going to bed, as the body will have mostly digested the evening meal, allowing for better absorption of the beneficial nutrients from the garlic and honey.

Important Notes:

• Do not exceed 40 grams of garlic soaked in honey per day.

• It is not recommended for infants under 12 months, people with stomach issues, pregnant women, or individuals allergic to garlic or honey.

• Avoid using it for people with diabetes, low blood pressure, cirrhosis, or digestive disorders.

The garlic and honey mixture can be stored for up to a year, preferably at a temperature of 20-25°C. Do not consume the mixture if it has been stored for too long, has an off smell, or tastes unusual.