A viral post on X has sparked interest in a traditional health practice: soaking garlic cloves in honey. The video, shared by@cooltechtipz, claims this mixture can boost immunity, fight colds, and reduce inflammation. But is there solid science behind eating garlic soaked in honey? Let’s explore.
The process is simple—peeled garlic cloves are submerged in raw honey and left to ferment for days or weeks. This combines two potent natural ingredients. Garlic contains allicin, a compound released when cloves are crushed or chopped, known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. A study from ScienceDirect confirms allicin’s ability to combat a wide range of bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains, and even tackle viruses. Honey brings its own benefits, packed with antioxidants like flavonoids that reduce inflammation and inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, according to a 2020 ScienceDirect review. Manuka honey, in particular, has shown antiviral effects, with lab tests cited by Healthline revealing it can stop flu virus growth almost as effectively as some antiviral drugs.
Fermenting garlic in honey may enhance these effects. Honey’s natural preservatives help stabilize garlic’s beneficial compounds, while fermentation can increase the bioavailability of antioxidants. Together, they form a powerful duo: garlic’s allicin fights pathogens, while honey’s flavonoids support the immune system and ease inflammation. This supports the video’s claims of immunity boosting and cold relief. X users also shared practical uses—one mentioned applying the mixture to wounds, which aligns with both ingredients’ antimicrobial properties.
That said, there are precautions. Eating too much garlic can lead to stomach upset, and raw honey isn’t safe for infants under one year due to botulism risk. For most adults, a small daily dose—like a teaspoon of the mixture—can be a safe way to tap into these benefits, as X user@Weemus0417 noted, crediting honey and garlic supplements for keeping them healthy.
The science is clear: garlic and honey each offer proven health benefits, and combining them through fermentation may amplify their effects. So yes, there’s solid evidence behind this remedy—making it a simple, natural option for supporting your health.
This article is based on a video from the X account@cooltechtipz, with supporting research from Healthline (2023) and ScienceDirect studies on allicin and honey flavonoids. Thanks to@cooltechtipz for highlighting this remedy and to the researchers for providing the scientific foundation.
