Garlic and honey are both known for their health benefits and are commonly used in natural remedies, including those intended to combat the common cold. Garlic is a potent antioxidant with antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibiotic properties. It can boost the immune system, significantly reduce the risk of getting a cold, and help to alleviate cold symptoms.
Honey is highly nutritious, loaded with antioxidants and is an effective cough suppressant. It’s recognized for its ability to soothe the throat and decrease cough frequency, making it a natural cough remedy.
Further, a mixture of honey and garlic may enhance these effects. Researches show this mixture can help to prevent colds, alleviate symptoms, and shorten the duration of illness, although side effects such as heartburn, stomach upset, and bad breath can occur.
Scientific Basis of Health Benefits
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Scientific evidence supports the cold-fighting properties of both garlic and honey. Some researches have proven that garlic can stimulate the immune system, helping to ward off colds. In a study published in “Clinical Nutrition,” it was found that participants who took garlic supplements had fewer colds and recovered faster when they got sick.
As for honey, research published in “Pediatrics” shows that it’s more effective than many over-the-counter cough suppressants. It can soothe irritated mucous membranes that trigger coughs, and its thickness helps to coat the throat.
While combining garlic with honey may result in a synergistic effect, amplifying the benefits each ingredient has on its own, more research is needed to fully understand their combined impact.
Debunking Myths
One myth surrounding garlic and honey involves the notion that they can completely cure a cold. Although garlic and honey can help to prevent colds and reduce the severity of symptoms, there’s no scientific evidence suggesting they can completely eradicate a virus once it’s invaded the body.
Another common misbelief is that raw honey is always better for you than processed honey. It’s true that raw honey contains more nutrients and beneficial compounds, but it’s also more likely to contain harmful bacteria, especially for people with weakened immune systems. Processed honey is pasteurized to destroy harmful bacteria, so it’s safer to consume.
Garlic Honey DIY Recipe
Now comes the fun part; trying out the recipe. Keep in mind that the first batch may not be perfect, but don’t be discouraged. The outcome will depend on factors like the quality and quantity of your ingredients, along with your consistency in following the steps. After trying the first batch, feel free to adjust the recipe based on your preferences for taste and effectiveness.
After preparing the garlic honey mixture, remember to take one or two spoons every day during the cold season or when you start to feel unwell. This mixture is a natural remedy that can help support your immune system, assisting in preventing or fighting off colds.
Safety Precautions and Dosage
While both raw garlic and honey have been used as traditional remedies for colds, it’s critical to understand the safety precautions surrounding their consumption. Raw garlic, while beneficial to health in many ways, may cause digestive upset in some individuals. Therefore, one needs to start with small amounts and increase their dosage gradually, provided no adverse effects are noticed.
As for honey, it is generally safe for adults and children above one year of age. However, it’s not recommended for children under 12 months due to the risk of botulism, a rare but potentially fatal illness.
Potential Side Effects of Garlic and Honey
Although garlic and honey have several health benefits, they might also cause side effects in some people. Garlic can cause bad breath, a burning sensation in the mouth or stomach, heartburn, gas, nausea, body odor, and diarrhea. These side effects can be more severe with raw garlic.
Honey, while it’s generally safe, may cause allergic reactions in individuals allergic to pollen or bees. These reactions can include wheezing, itching, swelling, or shortness of breath. Overconsumption of honey might also lead to weight gain due to its high sugar content.
Proper Dosage of Garlic Honey for Colds
Using garlic honey for colds typically involves making a simple syrup by combining minced or crushed garlic cloves with honey and letting them marinate. For dosage, a common recommendation is one to two teaspoons, up to three times a day. This should be appropriate for adults, however, always pay attention to your body’s reactions and reduce dosage if any discomfort is noticed.
For children, the dosage should be reduced to half a teaspoon to one teaspoon, based on their age and size. Remember, honey should never be given to children under 12 months old.
Note that while garlic and honey can provide symptomatic relief from colds due to their inherent properties, they’re not a replacement for medical treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional for severe or prolonged symptoms.
Here are two best recipes of garlic and honey for the upcoming cold season:
1. Old-Fashioned Cough Syrup Elixir
Warm up to the comforting embrace of this age-old remedy from At Home on the Prairie. Crafted with a blend of natural ingredients, including garlic and honey, this syrup is a soothing balm for colds. The robust combination of honey’s sweetness and garlic’s immune-boosting properties creates a concoction that not only tackles coughs but also provides a burst of wholesome goodness.
Get the full recipe at: At Home on the Prairie
2. Garlic Honey Sore Throat Remedy
Healthy Green Kitchen presents a powerhouse remedy for sore throats featuring the dynamic duo of garlic and honey. This simple yet potent concoction harnesses the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of garlic, complemented by the soothing sweetness of honey. Whip up this remedy to ease throat discomfort and boost your body’s defenses during the chilly seasons.
Get the full recipe at: Healthy Green Kitchen
Combatting colds has never been tastier or more comforting than with these garlic and honey-infused recipes. From soothing sore throats to calming coughs, these elixirs offer a natural and delightful way to boost your immune system. Embrace the goodness of these age-old remedies and let nature’s ingredients work their magic on your well-being.
