Garlic and honey are two of the most widely used home cold remedies. Garlic is a known antibacterial substance that may enhance the immune system, while honey soothes inflamed throat tissue and reduces coughing. A study published in 2007 in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine found that honey worked better than over-the-counter cough medicines for easing sore throat and treating cough in children. Numerous different natural cold medicines contain both honey and garlic, but you can also make your own remedies at home. Never give honey to a child under the age of 1.
Simple Syrup
A simple syrup made from garlic and honey may help relieve cold symptoms such as coughing, hoarseness, sore throat and congestion. In her book "Healing Remedies," Lydia Wilen recommends making your own honey and garlic syrup for a cold that has settled into the throat. To make, peel and mince an entire head of garlic, cover with about 1/2 cup raw honey in a small mixing bowl and then allow the mixture to stand for at least two to three hours before using. For best results, take 1 tsp. of the syrup every hour as needed. Swallow the syrup without chewing to avoid the strong garlic taste.
Garlic Honey Tea
Burton Goldberg, author of "Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide," suggests making a hot tea from honey and garlic to treat cold symptoms. This treatment effectively soothes a sore throat and helps suppress coughing. To make, add a clove of finely sliced fresh garlic to 1/2 cup raw honey in a small mixing bowl. Cover and allow the mixture to steep overnight, or for at least eight hours. To use, add 1 tsp. of the honey and garlic mixture to 1 cup hot water, stir well to combine and sip throughout the day. Drink up to three cups a day as needed.
Garlic, Honey and Lemon
When combined with honey and garlic, lemon juice makes a soothing cold remedy for sore throat and bronchial disorders, according to Paul Bedson in his book "The Complete Family Guide to Natural Healing." Finely chop two cloves fresh garlic, add 1/4 cup raw honey and 2 to 4 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well to combine, and allow the mixture to steep for two to eight hours. Take up to 1 tsp. of the mixture every hour to alleviate cold symptoms. Store any excess in the refrigerator when not in use.
Cold Fighting Tea
To fight cold symptoms, a tea made from ginger, honey, garlic, cayenne and lemon may provide relief, according to Joe Graedon, author of "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies." To make, bring 1/2 cup water to a boil in a saucepan. Add 1/2 tsp. ground ginger, 1 clove minced garlic and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Allow the mixture to boil for about one minute, and then remove from the heat. Add 1 tbsp. raw honey and the juice from one lemon. Stir the mixture well and allow it to cool to a drinkable temperature. For best results, hold your nose while consuming, as the taste is very strong. Drink 1 cup every three hours as needed.
References
- PubMed.gov: Effect of Honey, Dextromethorphan, and no Treatment on Nocturnal Cough and Sleep Quality for Coughing Children and Their Parents
- "Healing Remedies"; Lydia Wilen, Joan Wilen; 2008
- "Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide"; Burton Goldberg, Larry Trivieri, John W. Anderson; 2002
- "The Complete Family Guide to Natural Healing"; Paul Bedson; 2005
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies"; Joe Graedon, Teresa Graedon; 2000
