If I had to pick one herbal remedy that’s as simple as it is powerful, garlic-infused honey would be near the top of the list. It’s just two ingredients…garlic and raw honey. This combo packs a serious punch when it comes to fighting off colds, flu, and pretty much anything else trying to take you down this time of year. Especially when you add extra herbs to the mix.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is naturally antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and even antiparasitic. Allicin, one of garlic’s key compounds, helps fight infections and can even reduce the severity and length of a cold or flu. It also supports cardiovascular health and can give your immune system that little extra “kick” it needs when germs are making the rounds.
Raw Honey
Raw honey isn’t just a sweetener; it’s medicinal all on its own. It’s loaded with enzymes, antioxidants, and minerals, and it’s naturally antibacterial. It soothes sore throats, calms coughs, and helps preserve the garlic while infusing. Plus, raw honey helps draw out the medicinal compounds from the garlic, making the whole remedy stronger.
The Things You Need To Know
Making garlic honey is simple, but there are a couple of important things to keep in mind for safety and best results:
Keep it dry: Make sure your garlic cloves are as dry as possible after peeling. Too much moisture can lead to spoilage.
Storage while infusing: Keep the jar at room temperature in a cool, dark place while it infuses.
Fermentation signs: Garlic honey can bubble or fizz a little during the first week. That’s a natural fermentation process. Loosen the lid once a day to allow any gases to escape, then tighten it back up.
After infusing: Once it’s done (about 3–4 weeks), store it in a cool, dark place. It will keep for many months, though the flavor will mellow over time.
Extra Immune-Boosting Additions
Want to give your garlic honey an upgrade? Add any of these herbs or spices for an extra punch:
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Ginger – warming and great for circulation
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Thyme – antimicrobial and respiratory-supportive
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Rosemary – rich in antioxidants
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Elderberry – antiviral and immune-supportive
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Cayenne (my personal favorite) – for extra warming, circulation, and clearing congestion
Garlic Honey
Ingredients
- 1 cup Raw Honey
- Peeled Garlic Cloves
- 1 tsp Herb Powder (optional)
Instructions
- Place peeled, lightly crushed garlic cloves into a clean glass jar.
- Pour raw honey over the garlic until completely covered.
- Mix in herb powder (optional)
- Stir gently to remove any air bubbles, then make sure the garlic is fully submerged.
- Cover the jar with a lid and set it in a cool, dark spot to infuse for 3–4 weeks.
- Loosen "burp" the lid daily during the first week to release any fermentation gases.
- Once it's ready, you can strain out the garlic or leave it in. Store in a cool, dark place.
- Take 1 tsp-1 TBS, or add the honey to hot tea.
