There are so many health benefits of garlic and honey, but some of them may surprise you!
Garlic and honey are two everyday food items found in most kitchen pantries. You probably have both of them in your kitchen now. But, did you know that these two foods can provide numerous health benefits on their own and when combined?
Just like many other foods, garlic and honey have both been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties.
You may have heard of the benefits of garlic and honey on their own. However, the combination of the two is an even more helpful addition to your diet.
In this blog post, we’ll look at the health benefits of garlic and honey and how to use them for their maximum benefits.
Benefits of Garlic
Garlic has long been known for its many health benefits. Fresh garlic cloves can be used as an antimicrobial and antibacterial agent and can be a great natural remedy for all sorts of health issues.
Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Properties
Garlic has natural antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. This means it can help fight off infections and reduce inflammation.
Studies have shown that garlic can have powerful antiviral properties and act like a natural antibiotic. This is great to help fight off common illnesses like colds, flu, and even some more serious infections.
Cancer Prevention
Studies have also shown that garlic can help lower the risk of certain cancers, like colorectal and stomach cancer. This is because of its ability to reduce inflammation, which can help protect cells from damage.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Garlic can also help reduce cholesterol levels, improve circulation, and lower blood pressure. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Benefits of Honey
Honey has also been used for centuries for its medicinal properties.
As an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, honey can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and reduce the risk of some cancers.
It has also been shown to improve digestion, reduce allergies, and even reduce acne.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Honey has natural anti-inflammatory effects. It also acts as an antioxidant agent, meaning it can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage from free radicals.
Studies have shown that honey can help reduce the symptoms of allergies and even reduce the risk of some cancers.
Anti-inflammatory foods have so many benefits for the body.
Inflammation is linked to almost all chronic diseases because the body’s immune system stays in fight mode, and inflammation gets out of control.
Digestive Benefits
Honey can also help improve digestion. It can help reduce bloating, indigestion, and constipation, as well as help improve nutrient absorption.
Just a spoonful of honey can have positive effects on digestion within minutes.
Skin Care Benefits
Honey can also help reduce acne and promote healthier skin. This is due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to help balance the skin’s pH levels.
Particularly, manuka honey has also been shown to help heal skin infections, particularly manuka honey.
Health Benefits of Garlic and Honey
Combining honey and garlic can be a powerful tool for improving health.
The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of garlic can help fight off infections. While the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of honey can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Local honey and fresh garlic are a powerful combination that can help to reduce the risk of some cancers, improve digestion, reduce the symptoms of allergies and acne, and more.
With garlic and honey combined, you get all of their individual benefits but magnified, especially when it comes to brain and heart health.
Memory and Brain Health
Garlic and honey may help brain health due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
Garlic contains compounds that may boost cognitive performance and reduce the risk of dementia.
Honey has been shown to improve memory, learning, and problem-solving skills.
It may also protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
Together, the combination of garlic and honey may help to protect the brain from neurological decline and improve overall brain health.
Heart Health
Garlic and honey have also both been linked to heart health benefits.
Garlic has been shown to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure, while honey can help reduce inflammation.
This combination has also been shown to lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
Both garlic and honey can help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries, leading to heart disease.
Additionally, garlic and honey may help protect against stroke and other cardiovascular conditions.
Possible Side Effects of Honey and Garlic
Honey and garlic, when consumed in moderation, are generally safe for most people.
Like anything else, some people may have an intolerance or allergy to either.
Some potential side effects may include:
- Upset stomach or indigestion
- Possible allergic reactions
- Gastrointestinal issues, like bloating, gas, or diarrhea
- Interactions with certain medications
- Increased risk of cavities or tooth decay because of its high sugar content
- Headaches and dizziness due to its high sulfur content
How to Use Garlic and Honey
Garlic and honey can be used together in various ways as an herbal remedy or for illness prevention.
They can be added to meals, taken as a supplement, or even consumed as a tea.
Whichever way you choose, this powerful combination can help improve your overall health.
Garlic and Honey Tea:
Boil a cup of water and add two chopped garlic cloves, a teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of ground ginger.
Let the mixture of garlic and honey simmer for 5 minutes and then strain. Enjoy your tea warm.
Garlic and Honey Syrup:
Place four chopped garlic cloves in a saucepan with 1/2 cup of honey and 1/4 cup of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes. Strain the syrup and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Garlic and Honey Herbal Tonic:
Mix 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric, a pinch of ground cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of honey, and 1/4 cup of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. Strain the tonic and enjoy warm.
Garlic and Honey Elixir:
Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 4 chopped garlic cloves, and 1/4 cup of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 15 minutes. Strain the elixir and enjoy warm.
Garlic and Honey Supplements:
Garlic supplements are available in capsule form, and you can also find organic fermented garlic honey, usually from local sources, or you can purchase it online.
Using Garlic and Honey in Your Food
There are so many different ways you can use garlic and honey separately in your diet.
It’s easy to figure out how to use them on their own, but it might be a little more of a challenge to figure out how to combine them in your everyday meals.
Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
1. They can be used to make a simple sauce or marinade for meats. Just mince the garlic and mix it with olive oil, honey, and any other seasonings you like. Spread the mixture over the meat and let sit for a few hours before grilling or baking.
2. Garlic and honey can be combined to make a sweet and savory salad dressing. Mince garlic and combine with honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and any additional desired seasonings.
3. Garlic and honey can also be used to make a glaze for roasted vegetables. Just mince the garlic, mix it with honey and olive oil, and brush over the vegetables before roasting.
4. Garlic and honey can be used to make a simple yet flavorful soup. Mince garlic and sauté in olive oil. Add honey, stock, and any desired vegetables. Simmer until vegetables are soft, and serve warm.
5. Garlic and honey can be used to make a simple and healthy spread. Mince garlic and mix with honey, a bit of olive oil, and any additional seasonings. Spread over toast or crackers, and enjoy!
Before you go, here are more posts you’ll enjoy:
The Health Benefits of Vanilla Extract
Health Benefits of Pine Pollen
