Support your body’s defenses this season with Joy Bauer’s simple elixir.
(Solidarity to all of my fellow parents with kids in school or daycare!)
But giving your body a helping hand this time of year is also a good idea.
Photo:Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
How To Make Fermented Garlic Honey
The process to make this pungent elixir couldn’t be easier.
Add 1 cup freshly-peeledgarlic clovesto a cleaned and sanitized glass jar with a lid.
Top with 1 cup ofpourable, raw honey until it settles about 2-inches above the cloves.
Secure the lid, then flip upside down to ensure all of the garlic is coated.
From here, its mostly just a waiting game, with one daily 15-second commitment.
Each day, unscrew the lid to release the natural gasses developing through the fermentation process.
Seal it up again and place it back into its place.
This will help create an environment that will prevent botulism growth.
Be sure to check the label for the percent acidity of your vinegar.
While fermentation does take some time, the wait is absolutely worth it.
Allowing the honey and garlic to ferment unleashes compounds that can keep you feeling your best, says Bauer.
Benefits of Honey and Garlic
So what makes this combination so powerful for immunity?
Raw honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help fight infection and soothe irritation.
Furthermore, fermenting garlicmay actually enhancethese active compounds.
The honey also mellows the intense flavor of the garlic, making its raw version more palatable to many.
Together, honey and garlic create an accessible, immune-supporting duo.
How Much Fermented Garlic Honey Should You Eat?
For cold prevention, she recommends eating one clove a day.
And one may be all you might manage.
As one reader said, it sounds intense but brilliant!
I wouldnt describe it as tastinggood, said Joy, but its palatable and helpful!
Adding that her partner actually likes the taste…[and theyve] been eating one a day.
For soothing relief, you might also stir a spoonful intohot teaorlemon water.
The honey can help coat and calm your throat.
For natural antiviral and antibacterial benefits all season long, give this fermentation hack a try.
You may be surprised at how cold and flu season unfolds for you.
