Honey When Sick Fermented Garlic Honey as a Homemade Cold Remedy

Introduction

As flu season approaches, it’s essential to be prepared with effective remedies to combat the dreaded cold and flu. While many people turn to over-the-counter medications, there are natural ingredients in your kitchen that can offer powerful immune-boosting properties. Garlic and honey, individually known for their health benefits, can be combined to create a potent elixir known as fermented garlic honey. This homemade cold remedy has gained popularity on social media but has been a staple in households for a long time. In this article, we will explore the benefits of fermented garlic honey and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make and use it.

Benefits of Fermented Garlic Honey

Garlic and honey, when consumed separately, have long been recognized for their immune-boosting properties. Garlic, dating back to 1550 B.C., has been used as an antibiotic during epidemics and is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties help improve immune function and fight off infections. On the other hand, honey is not only soothing for a sore throat but also imparts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial effects.

When combined, fermented garlic honey becomes a powerful remedy that supports the immune system and provides relief from colds, the flu, sore throats, and coughs. The fermentation process enhances the beneficial properties of both garlic and honey, making it an excellent natural remedy for combating sickness.

How to Make Fermented Garlic Honey

Making fermented garlic honey is a simple process, although it does require some patience. Follow these steps to create your own homemade cold remedy:

1. Gather the necessary ingredients:
2. Raw, unfiltered honey

3. Peeled garlic cloves from 2 to 3 heads of garlic

4. Prepare a clean, dry jar by sterilizing it.

5. Add the peeled garlic cloves to the jar. You can maximize the infusion of garlic into the honey by poking each clove with a knife, although this step is optional.

6. Pour the honey into the same jar, ensuring that the garlic cloves are completely covered. The jar should be about 2/3 full.

7. Mix the garlic and honey together thoroughly.

8. Seal the jar tightly and allow the contents to settle for 3 to 4 weeks. During this time, you will notice bubbles forming in the honey. To prevent the jar from bursting, “burp” it every 1 to 2 days by releasing the gas, similar to making kombucha or sourdough.

9. The honey will be ready when it becomes noticeably thinner and less viscous, typically around the 3 to 4 week mark. This change occurs as the liquid is drawn out from the garlic cloves.

Pro-tip: Avoid refrigerating the fermented garlic honey as it can cause crystallization and slow down the fermentation process.

Using Fermented Garlic Honey

Fermented garlic honey can be used in various ways to alleviate symptoms and boost the immune system during the cold and flu season. Here are some suggestions:

1. Consuming the garlic cloves: Take a couple of cloves a day directly from the jar. The cloves can be chewed or swallowed whole.

2. Adding honey to tea or other drinks: Stir a spoonful of fermented garlic honey into your favorite hot or cold beverages. It adds a unique flavor while providing its immune-boosting benefits.

3. Incorporating into recipes: Get creative in the kitchen by using fermented garlic honey in vinaigrettes or as a marinade. It adds a garlicky punch to dishes like marinated shrimp or chicken. Additionally, drizzle it over baked brie and goat cheese on a cheeseboard for a delectable treat.

Conclusion

Fermented garlic honey is a natural and homemade cold remedy that combines the immune-boosting properties of garlic and honey. This elixir not only supports the immune system but also provides relief from cold and flu symptoms, sore throats, and coughs. By fermenting garlic in honey, you can unlock the full potential of these ingredients and create a potent remedy to combat sickness. Follow the simple steps outlined in this article to make your own fermented garlic honey and enjoy its benefits throughout the flu season.

Remember, when it comes to staying healthy during flu season, sometimes the answers can be found in your very own kitchen. So why not give fermented garlic honey a try and keep those pesky cold symptoms at bay?