The practice of ingesting fermented garlic honey dates back centuries and can be traced to various ancient cultures. Garlic and honey have been valued for their medicinal properties individually, and the combination of the two through fermentation has been recognized as a powerful natural remedy. Many (including myself) use it as a daily part of my “supplement routine” to stay healthy. Whole food supplements, that’s what I’m talking about!
Garlic alone has been used for its health benefits since ancient times. Civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used it for its medicinal properties. It was well known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. It was commonly used to treat various ailments with great success.
Honey also has a rich history of therapeutic use. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners considered honey a valuable natural remedy. Honey was used to treat wounds, respiratory issues, and digestive problems due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.
The combination of garlic and honey through fermentation likely arose as a way to harness the benefits of both ingredients synergistically. Fermentation is a traditional preservation method that has been used for centuries to preserve and enhance the nutritional and medicinal qualities of various foods. Fermenting garlic with honey was their way to create a powerful elixir that combines the immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties of garlic with the soothing and nutritive properties of honey.
While the exact origin and timeline of ingesting fermented garlic honey are not well-documented, it can be inferred that the practice emerged organically through the centuries as people discovered the benefits of combining these two potent ingredients. Today, fermented garlic honey continues to be valued as a natural remedy for various health conditions and is enjoyed for its unique flavor and health benefits.
Benefits of Fermented Garlic Honey
Better Immune System
Fermented garlic honey is a powerful natural remedy that offers enhanced immunity benefits. The fermentation process combines the immune-boosting properties of garlic with the beneficial effects of honey, creating a potent elixir. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, while honey provides soothing and antioxidant effects. When these two ingredients undergo fermentation, they release additional beneficial compounds and enzymes, making the resulting mixture even more potent for immune support.
The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin, have been shown to enhance immune response, helping the body fight off infections and diseases. Whether taken as a natural remedy or added to culinary creations, fermented garlic honey offers a delicious and convenient way to bolster your immune system and maintain optimal health. I personally think it kind of tastes like teriyaki chicken, so it can be used in cooking as well!
Better Digestion
Ingesting fermented garlic honey can contribute to better digestion and overall gut health. Garlic possesses natural prebiotics, which means it provides nourishment to the beneficial bacteria in the gut. By fermenting garlic with honey, the fermentation process enhances these prebiotic effects, promoting the growth of beneficial gut flora. The combination of fermented garlic and honey can also aid in soothing acute digestive discomfort, so it’s the perfect think to keep around for when you have a stomach ache. Garlic has been traditionally used to alleviate digestive issues such as bloating and gas due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Honey, on the other hand, has soothing and anti-inflammatory effects on the digestive system. Together, they can help calm inflammation, reduce digestive distress, and promote a healthy gut environment.
Fermented garlic honey even stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, which play a crucial role in breaking down food and optimizing nutrient absorption. These enzymes aid in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, supporting overall digestive health. Say goodbye to bloating!
Fermented Garlic Honey for Cardiovascular Health
Fermented garlic honey offers potential benefits for cardiovascular health due to garlic’s heart-protective properties. Garlic has long been recognized for its potential positive impact on cardiovascular health. It contains compounds like allicin and sulfur compounds that have been shown to support healthy blood pressure levels, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote overall cardiovascular well-being.
When garlic undergoes the fermentation process and is combined with honey, it can amplify these cardiovascular benefits. Fermentation can enhance the bioavailability and concentration of beneficial compounds in garlic, making them more accessible to the body. The resulting fermented garlic honey blend may provide a potent combination of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and heart-healthy nutrients.
Honey, too, can play a role in supporting cardiovascular health. Raw and unprocessed honey contains antioxidants and polyphenols that have been associated with various cardiovascular benefits. These compounds can help reduce inflammation, promote healthy blood flow, and support the maintenance of healthy blood lipid profiles. Additionally, honey has been shown to have positive effects on markers of oxidative stress, which is a contributing factor to cardiovascular issues.
While fermented garlic honey may offer potential benefits for cardiovascular health, it’s important to note that individual results may vary. It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if you have any pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or are taking medications. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are also vital for overall cardiovascular well-being.
How to Make Fermented Garlic Honey into Homemade Cough Syrup
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cloves of garlic, peeled
– One cup raw honey
– 1 quart glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
– Cheesecloth or coffee filter
– Rubber band
– Label or marker
Instructions:
1. Start by thoroughly cleaning the glass jar and lid with hot soapy water, ensuring there are no lingering odors or residue.
2. Peel the cloves of garlic, making sure to remove any green shoots or damaged parts. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
3. Use a fork to poke the garlic 5-10 times. This allows the honey to completely penetrate each garlic clove. You can also crush the cloves a bit before putting them in the honey.
4. Place the peeled garlic cloves inside the glass jar, filling it about three-quarters full.
5. Pour raw honey over the garlic cloves, ensuring that they are completely covered. Use a spoon or spatula to gently press the garlic cloves down, ensuring no air pockets remain.
6. Close the jar tightly with the lid and gently tip it to distribute the honey evenly.
7. Once a day for two weeks, you’ll need to “burp” your jar which just means you need to let the air out from the fermentation process. I like to alternate days with the direction of my jar: AKA tip my jar upside down on Monday, right side up on Tuesday, upside down on Wednesday. This ensures that all the garlic cloves are getting covered and evenly fermented.
8. After two weeks, the fermentation process is complete and you can ingest the cloves, the honey, or blend up and make a delicious teriyaki sauce.
Conclusion
I personally have a jar on my counter that is over 4 months old and the garlic and honey have neither gone bad. I have added this to my daily supplement routine to stay healthy. For my kids, I use the honey in a syringe when they get sick, just like you would children’s Motrin or something. It can feel overwhelming to start making these holistic switches when we’ve been programmed to go straight to medication rather than straight to healing foods. But that’s how you do it. Just start. Just make one switch at a time. And this is a great one to start with!
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