Garlic soaked in honey is widely regarded as a powerful natural remedy. But what exactly can this combination help treat? Below is a detailed look at the health benefits, scientific explanations, and practical ways to use this ancient healing mixture.

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Garlic and Honey — A Powerful Traditional Remedy

Garlic is one of the most common cooking ingredients in households worldwide. Beyond culinary uses, it has been valued for centuries in traditional medicine for its ability to treat various ailments.
According to Associate Professor Michael Fenster from the University of Montana (USA), garlic contains over 2,000 compounds, about 500 of which are known to benefit human health. Garlic can be used alone or paired with other natural ingredients—honey being one of the most effective companions.

When garlic is soaked in honey, the two ingredients create a natural “medicine” that combines anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties—supporting both treatment and overall wellness.

Dr. Lauri Wright, Director of Nutrition at the University of South Florida, explains that both garlic and honey are rich in antioxidants and have been used in traditional healing practices for centuries.

“Putting garlic and honey together can produce remarkable health benefits,” Dr. Wright confirms.

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Health Benefits of Garlic Soaked in Honey

1. Soothes Coughs and Sore Throats

Dr. Wright notes that the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties found in both garlic and honey can effectively relieve coughing and throat irritation caused by colds, viruses, or bacterial infections.

A study by the University of Pennsylvania (USA) found that 1–2 teaspoons of honey can work similarly to cough syrup in relieving sore throat. Meanwhile, research also indicates that antioxidants in garlic may help reduce inflammation and shorten the duration of colds.

When combined, garlic and honey form a natural cough remedy that is gentle yet surprisingly potent.

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2. Supports Heart Health

According to Dr. Wright, a diet rich in garlic may help lower total cholesterol, especially harmful LDL (bad cholesterol). Garlic is also known to help reduce blood pressure—two key factors in preventing cardiovascular diseases.

The American Heart Association states that honey contains beneficial antioxidants such as phenolic acids and flavonoids, which have been shown in small human studies to improve cholesterol levels and reduce heart disease risk.

Together, garlic and honey create a heart-friendly tonic that supports healthier circulation and blood lipid balance.

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3. Helps Reduce Joint Pain

The antioxidants in garlic can also help ease joint discomfort.
A study published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice found that women with knee osteoarthritis who consumed garlic daily experienced a 26% reduction in pain and a 13% decrease in stiffness after 12 weeks.

While garlic-honey mixtures are not a replacement for medical treatment, many people use them as a natural supportive method for chronic joint discomfort.

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4. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels

Garlic contains allicin, a powerful antioxidant that may help stabilize blood glucose levels.

Honey, although a natural sweetener, behaves differently from refined sugar. According to Healthline, honey contains antioxidants that protect the body from metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. It may also improve levels of adiponectin, a hormone that reduces inflammation and helps regulate blood sugar.

Some studies show that consuming honey daily can improve fasting blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes.
However, honey should still be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with diabetes.

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5. Supports Brain Health

Both garlic and honey contain high levels of antioxidants that help balance immune activity and protect the body from oxidative damage. According to Healthline, garlic soaked in honey may help protect the brain, support memory, and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Regular consumption may contribute to improved cognitive function over time.

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How to Make Garlic Soaked in Honey

According to a medically reviewed article from Medlatec General Hospital, this is the recommended method:

Ingredients

• Fresh garlic (peeled)

• Pure honey

• A clean glass jar

Note: Choose fresh garlic that is firm and free from bruising. Avoid sprouted garlic as it may reduce the quality of the final product.

Instructions

1. Peel the garlic cloves and rinse them thoroughly.

2. Slice or lightly crush each clove to help release allicin.

3. Sterilize the glass jar and let it dry.

4. Place the garlic into the jar, then pour honey over it.
   → Use about 15 g garlic per 100 ml honey.

5. Seal the jar tightly and let the mixture ferment for 14–20 days.
   Afterward, store it in the refrigerator and use gradually.

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Ways to Use Garlic Soaked in Honey

1. Eat It Directly

This preserves the strongest effects. Suitable for people who don’t mind the aroma of garlic.

2. Mix with Warm Water

A gentler option that still offers full benefits.

3. Use as a Sauce or Dressing

You can drizzle it over salads, cold dishes, or use it as a marinade for added flavor and nutrition.

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Why You Shouldn’t Discard Onion and Garlic Peels

Although often thrown away, onion and garlic skins contain valuable nutrients and can be reused in various ways. According to Times Entertainment, these peels are rich in vitamins A, C, E, minerals, and antioxidants—especially quercetin in onion skins and phenylpropanoids in garlic skins.

These compounds support heart health, boost immunity, and slow aging.

Even many professional chefs use roasted, ground onion and garlic skins as seasoning to intensify flavor in dishes such as soups, curries, salads, and stews. Some chefs even char the peels and store them as a natural smoky seasoning.

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Practical Uses for Garlic Skins in Daily Life

1. Deodorizing Shoes

The allicin in garlic peels has antibacterial and antimicrobial effects.
Place a handful inside each shoe overnight to reduce moisture and unpleasant odor.

2. Foot Soaking

Soak your feet in 60°C warm water with added garlic peels.
Heat releases allicin, helping reduce fatigue, disinfect the skin, and prevent colds.

3. Poultry Feed

Mix dried garlic skins with poultry feed to boost appetite, reduce disease risk, and improve meat quality.

4. Natural Fertilizer

Garlic peels contain potassium and phosphorus—excellent nutrients for plants.
Sprinkle the peels into soil to enrich it naturally and reduce fertilizer costs.