Garlic and honey have been used for centuries as natural remedies for cough and other respiratory issues. According to this article, honey has the same effect to cough as the suppressant dextromethorphan. Garlic and honey can help in diminishing coughing as they contain compounds having antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
While it’s not possible to cure a sore throat immediately, there are natural remedies available that can help alleviate the discomfort, such as honey, garlic, and herbs. However, if the symptoms persist even after a week it’s advisable to seek medical attention from a doctor.
In this article, we will cover various home remedies for cough relief using garlic and honey, including preparation methods and tips for effective use. Together, they make a powerful combination to alleviate cough and sore throat.
1. Garlic and Honey Tea for cough
Making garlic and honey tea is relatively easy and requires only a few ingredients. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 cup of water
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Peel and chop the garlic clove into small pieces.
- Boil the water in a pot.
- Add the chopped garlic to the boiling water and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the garlic infuse in the water for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and add honey to taste.
- You can also add a few drops of lemon juice for an additional boost of vitamin C.
- Drink the tea while it’s still warm.
Benefits of Drinking Garlic and Honey Tea for Cough Relief
Garlic and honey tea can provide many benefits for cough relief. Here are a few of them:
- Antibacterial and antiviral properties: Garlic has antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacterial and viral infections that cause coughs and colds.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.
- Immune-boosting properties: Garlic and honey are both known for their immune-boosting properties, which can help strengthen the body’s defenses against infections.
- Expectorant properties: Garlic can act as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and mucus, making it easier to cough up.
2. Garlic and Honey Cough Syrup
Garlic and honey cough syrup is another natural remedy for cough relief that is easy to make and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
This syrup can be made with just a few ingredients and is a great alternative to store-bought cough syrups that often contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup of raw honey
- 1 small piece of ginger root (optional)
Step By Step Preparation
- Add the chopped garlic to a small saucepan.
- Add enough water to cover the garlic and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until the garlic is soft.
- Strain the garlic water into a clean bowl.
- Add the raw honey to the garlic water and stir until well combined.
- Add a small piece of ginger root to the mixture for added flavor and health benefits.
- Transfer the syrup to a clean glass jar
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tips for Storing and Using the Syrup
- The syrup should be stored in a clean, airtight glass jar in the refrigerator.
- Take one teaspoon of the syrup every few hours as needed for cough relief.
- Shake the jar before each use to ensure that the ingredients are well mixed.
- Discard the syrup if it changes color, or consistency, or develops an off odor.
- This garlic and honey cough syrup is a great natural remedy for cough relief and can be easily made at home with just a few ingredients.
3. Garlic and Honey Steam Inhalation for Cough
Steam inhalation with garlic and honey can be a simple and effective way to find relief.
How to do steam inhalation with garlic and honey
- Start by boiling 2-3 cups of water in a large pot.
- While the water is boiling, crush 2-3 garlic cloves and add them to the pot.
- Reduce the heat and let the garlic simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the garlic water.
- Drape a towel over your head and lean over the pot, being careful not to touch the hot water.
- Inhale the steam deeply for 5-10 minutes, taking deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times per day as needed.
It’s important to note that steam inhalation should be used with caution and not be used by everyone. If you have asthma or other respiratory issues, it’s best to check with your doctor before trying this method.
4. Garlic and Honey Lozenges for Cough Relief
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 cup of raw honey
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of organic coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
Preparation of Garlic and Honey Lozenges
- Peel and crush the garlic cloves and let them sit for 15 minutes to activate their medicinal properties.
- In a saucepan, combine the honey, water, coconut oil, and lemon juice and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the crushed garlic to the mixture and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool down for 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a candy mold or ice cube tray and freeze for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Once the mixture has solidified, remove the lozenges from the mold and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips for Using Garlic and Honey Lozenges Effectively
- Take one lozenge every 2-3 hours, as needed, to relieve cough symptoms.
- Let the lozenge dissolve slowly in your mouth to allow the garlic and honey to soothe your throat and suppress your cough.
- Be aware that garlic can have a strong odor and taste, but the honey can help to mask it.
- It is important to note that garlic can thin the blood and may interact with certain medications.
5. Garlic and Honey Soup for Cough
Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation of Garlic and Honey Soup
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped onion and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and add honey and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
- Use a hand blender or transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Your Garlic and Honey Soup for Cough is now ready to serve!
Health Benefits of Garlic and Honey Soup
- Immune System Booster: Garlic and honey contain antioxidants that help boost the immune system and fight off infections.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Garlic and honey have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and airways.
- Antibacterial and Antiviral Properties: Garlic and honey have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties that help fight off bacteria and viruses that cause cough and cold symptoms.
- Soothing and Hydrating: Garlic and honey soup is soothing and hydrating for the throat and airways, helping to relieve cough and cold symptoms.
Honey is known to cause allergic reactions in some people, particularly those with a pollen allergy. This is because bees collect pollen and nectar from flowers, which can contain allergenic proteins.
Symptoms of a honey allergy may include hives, itching, swelling, coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. It’s important to note that infants under the age of one should not be given honey due to the risk of botulism
Summary
Each of the above-discussed methods provides unique benefits and can be easily prepared at home using simple ingredients. If you decide to try garlic and honey for cough relief, be sure to use high-quality, organic ingredients and follow proper preparation techniques.
It’s also important to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any underlying medical conditions or take any medications that may interact with these remedies.