Is consuming garlic steeped in honey in the morning beneficial?

I regularly steep garlic in honey and drink it in the morning to prevent respiratory illnesses. Is this beneficial, and who should avoid it? (Chi, 35, Hanoi)

Response:

The mixture of garlic steeped in honey offers both anti-inflammatory, soothing, and nourishing properties. It acts as a defensive remedy for the body, especially during periods of changing weather.

According to Western medicine, garlic possesses natural antibacterial and antiviral properties due to allicin, a natural antibiotic compound. Allicin effectively eliminates bacteria, fungi, and viruses without damaging mucous membranes, unlike pharmaceutical antibiotics. Honey, rich in enzymes and antioxidants, creates a naturally gentle disinfecting environment. It softens mucous membranes, helping to reduce coughs and soothe the throat, while garlic aids in expelling phlegm and reducing inflammation in the pharynx, particularly at night.

This garlic-honey mixture boosts immunity and helps prevent recurrent colds and flu. It also promotes good digestion, especially for individuals prone to bloating and slow digestion when the weather turns cold. Honey acts as a mild laxative, regulates the spleen and stomach, and reduces constipation.

Allicin, a sulfur compound, also helps lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad" cholesterol). Additionally, it has vasodilating and mildly hypotensive effects. Honey contains flavonoids and polyphenols, a group of antioxidants that protect blood vessel walls, reduce inflammation, and prevent oxidative stress, a factor in cardiovascular disease. Therefore, this mixture is also beneficial for individuals with cardiovascular conditions.

The best way to consume it is to eat one to two cloves of steeped garlic with one spoonful of honey each morning. However, despite its benefits, garlic steeped in honey is not suitable for everyone. Groups who should absolutely avoid it include: children under 12 months, individuals with acute diarrhea, those with an excessively warm constitution (nong trong), severe constipation, people with low blood pressure or dizziness, and anyone allergic to garlic or honey.

To prepare the mixture: Choose 200-300 grams of Vietnamese garlic (small, purple-skinned garlic), peel it cleanly, and lightly crush the cloves. Use 500-700 ml of pure honey, ensuring it completely covers the garlic in a one-liter glass jar. Store the jar in a cool, clean place. It will be ready to use after 7-10 days, and its efficacy improves the longer it steeps.