The combination of garlic and honey offers both antibiotic and antiviral attributes, in addition to being a source of antioxidants.
Garlic and honey offer numerous established health advantages. You can experience their positive effects by utilizing them individually or in combination. They can be consumed as medicinal supplements or incorporated into dishes in their unprocessed state. Some varieties of honey and garlic might provide greater benefits than others. Continue reading to discover the health perks of garlic and honey, the most optimal forms for consumption, cooking ideas for both, and possible adverse reactions.
Benefits of Garlic and Honey
Medical studies have explored the potential health advantages of garlic and honey separately as well as when combined.
Assertions found in traditional remedies, which have been practiced for centuries, have influenced several studies.
In Ethiopian traditional medicine, a specific variety of honey is utilized to address respiratory issues, skin ailments, and gastrointestinal problems.
Garlic has been historically employed to alleviate the symptoms of colds and coughs. Additionally, it is believed to enhance the immune system and alleviate asthma symptoms. In Arab traditional medicine, garlic was suggested for the treatment of heart conditions, hypertension, arthritis, dental pain, constipation, and infections.
Immune Support
Garlic and honey are both known for their remarkable ability to boost the immune system. Garlic is rich in compounds that enhance the production of white blood cells, which is essential for combating infections. On the other hand, honey’s antibacterial and antiviral properties make it effective in preventing and treating a wide range of illnesses, ranging from the common cold to more serious respiratory infections.
Cardiovascular Health
Several scientific and experimental studies have delved into the numerous benefits that garlic offers for heart health. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic has acknowledged the potential of honey’s antioxidants in providing protection against heart disease.
Garlic reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke, per a medical review, by:
- Reducing elevated blood pressure
- Reducing elevated cholesterol levels
- Preventing excessive blood clotting
- Preventing the hardening or stiffening of blood vessels.
According to a different review, the sulfur compounds in garlic may also help to strengthen the heart’s muscles and increase the elasticity of blood vessels. This lessens the risk of stroke, blood clots, and heart disease.
LDL cholesterol mostly causes hardening of the blood vessels. Stroke and heart problems may result from this.
Garlic was found to help reduce dangerously high levels of LDL cholesterol in rats. Garlic powder, or raw extract, was fed to the rats. To find out if people will experience the same benefits from decreasing cholesterol, more research is required.
Improve brain health
Antioxidant compounds are abundant in garlic and honey. These advantageous substances aid in maintaining a balanced immune system and provide protection against illnesses. Additionally, they might shield your brain from prevalent illnesses like dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Garlic may help prevent or slow down certain age-related illnesses, but further research is required.
Research indicates that aged garlic extracts have a high concentration of kyolic acid, an antioxidant. This potent antioxidant may aid in preventing age- and disease-related brain damage. Some people may benefit from this in terms of memory, focus, and concentration.
Antiviral properties
Certain types of honey include potent antiviral characteristics as well. This could aid in the treatment or avoidance of colds, the flu, and other viral infections.
According to a lab study, manuka honey can inhibit the growth of the flu virus. The researchers came to the conclusion that honey—particularly Manuka honey—fought this virus nearly as effectively as antiviral medications.
How to use garlic and honey
Garlic and honey have numerous health benefits that can be obtained either by cooking with them or by supplementing with them.
Garlic that has been freshly chopped or crushed is best for your health. Aged garlic extract and powder are also high in nutritional value. Although garlic oil has fewer health benefits, it can still be utilized to flavor food.
Garlic powder is typically found in garlic supplements. Garlic pills and fresh garlic have no suggested dosage. A few medical investigations indicate that taking 150–2,400 mg of garlic powder every day can have positive effects on your health.
A natural treatment for coughs, colds, and sore throats is raw, pure honey. For coughs, the Mayo Clinic suggests using labiatae, citrus, and eucalyptus honey. To help reduce the symptoms of colds and the flu, take a teaspoon of honey as needed or mix it with herbal teas.
Additionally, honey can be applied topically to relieve skin irritations such as flare-ups of acne and allergic rashes. Moreover, burns, scratches, and other skin wounds can be treated with it. After cleansing the skin, directly apply a tiny quantity of medical-grade honey.
How to Use Garlic and Honey in Your Recipe
Garlic and honey aren’t just limited to medicinal use; they can also elevate the flavors of various dishes, adding depth and complexity to your culinary creations. Below, we explore some delectable recipes that showcase the versatility of this dynamic duo:
1. Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For garnishing, you can use sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions.
Instructions:
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet or wok on medium-high heat. Proceed to add the sliced chicken, ensuring it is cooked until browned and fully cooked, which typically takes around 5 to 7 minutes.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the marinated salmon fillets to a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
- While the salmon is baking, transfer the remaining marinade to a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until it thickens into a glaze, about 5 minutes.
- Once the salmon is done, brush the glaze over the fillets and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!
2. Garlic Honey Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, soy sauce, and honey to create the sauce.
- Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet or wok on medium-high heat. Once heated, introduce the sliced chicken into the skillet and cook it until it is browned and thoroughly cooked, usually within a span of 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the assorted vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry until crisp-tender, about 3–4 minutes.
- Coat the chicken and vegetables by pouring the sauce over them and tossing until evenly distributed.
- Serve the garlic-honey chicken stir-fry hot over cooked rice or noodles. Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds as a garnish, if preferred.
3. Roasted Garlic Honey Carrots
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of baby carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss together the baby carrots, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Evenly distribute the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet that is ready for baking.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Transfer the roasted garlic and honey carrots to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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Side effects of garlic and honey
While garlic and honey have many health benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential adverse effects, especially when ingested in high quantities or by those with certain health issues. Here are some possible adverse effects to consider:
Garlic
Digestive Issues: Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, or heartburn, after consuming garlic, especially when eaten raw or in large amounts.
Bad Breath and Body Odor: Garlic contains sulfur compounds that can lead to pungent breath and body odor, which may be undesirable for some individuals.
Blood Thinning: Garlic has natural blood-thinning properties, which may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly for those already taking blood-thinning medications.
Allergic Reactions: While rare, some people may be allergic to garlic, leading to symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Honey
High Sugar Content: Honey is high in natural sugars, primarily fructose and glucose. Consuming excessive amounts of honey can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of diabetes.
Potential Contamination: Raw honey may contain spores of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause botulism, a rare but serious illness, particularly in infants under one year of age.
Allergic Reactions: Although allergic reactions to honey are rare, they can occur, particularly in people who are allergic to bee pollen or other bee products. Itching, swelling, hives, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis are possible symptoms.
The bottom line
Garlic and honey are employed in traditional medicine for their numerous health advantages. A recent medical study has confirmed some of these foods’ health benefits.
More research is needed to determine the specific dosages and advantages of garlic and honey. However, you can benefit from the nutritional and therapeutic benefits of garlic and honey by incorporating them into your everyday meals.
