Natural products offer many health benefits. In fact, most kitchen staples like herbs, spices and condiments can double as home remedies for a host of ailments and illnesses. Garlic, for instance, contains at least 33 sulfur compounds that make it a potent antiseptic agent; honey has essential amino acids that support cardiovascular health; and apple cider vinegar promotes digestion and weight loss, especially in its organic, unfiltered form.

The benefits of garlic, honey and apple cider vinegar

Garlic, honey and apple cider vinegar are three of the healthiest kitchen staples you can use as natural medicines.

Garlic

Garlic, known botanically as Allium sativum, is a bulb vegetable known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Active compounds like allicin, alliin and ajoene make it a potent antiseptic agent against viral and bacterial infections. Garlic is typically used to treat constipation, hypertension and Type 2 diabetes. It is best consumed raw to enjoy its medicinal effects to the fullest.

Honey

Raw honey is an excellent source of antioxidants and amino acids that improve cholesterol and regulate blood sugar. It also has a high concentration of good carbohydrates that the body converts into energy. Honey can also heal wounds and burns thanks to its antimicrobial properties. But be sure to use raw honey since processed variants contain unhealthy sweeteners and additives.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for a wide range of ailments including high cholesterol and digestive disorders. ACV also inhibits the absorption of excess glucose that the body would have converted to fat. Additionally, ACV improves calcium absorption and supports bone development. Use only raw ACV to maximize its benefits. The liquid should look cloudy and contain visible sediments.

When combined, these three ingredients make for a potent natural remedy for digestive problems, inflammatory conditions and viral and bacterial infections. The mixture can also aid weight loss efforts and prevent obesity.

How to prepare an oxymel

An oxymel is an herbal syrup that contains honey and ACV. It is commonly used as a natural homemade remedy for colds and flu. Many people like to throw in certain herbs or spices as well to boost the syrup’s healing effects.

For this recipe, you can use garlic to enhance the honey’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It is also best to use raw or organic honey and ACV to avoid additives and ensure high concentrations of the important compounds and nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw honey
• 1 cup organic apple cider vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 8 cloves garlic

Preparation:

• Finely chop the garlic cloves and set aside for 10 minutes. This gives the garlic time to release allicin, its most active ingredient.
• In a saucepan, mix ACV and water. Heat the mixture for 10 minutes on low heat. You can add herbs like rosemary, sage or peppermint at this point.
• Add the garlic to the saucepan and steep it on low heat for 60 minutes.
• Add the raw honey to the saucepan and stir until it is mixed in evenly. Turn off the heat.
• Pour the mixture into an airtight jar. The syrup can be kept at room temperature or refrigerated. It should last for at least six months.

To use the oxymel, take two tablespoons every 2 hours if you have a stuffy or runny nose. You can also use it to dress salads, leafy greens and meat dishes.

Certain kitchen staples like garlic, honey and apple cider vinegar double as potent home remedies for minor ailments like colds, indigestion and inflammation. Boost immune functions by incorporating these food cures into everyday meals and beverages.

Sources:

StepToHealth.com

InlandNaturalMedicine.com