Health Benefits of Garlic-Infused Honey (+ DIY Recipe)

ByMary Woita
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Garlic infused honey is a traditional folk remedy that combines two powerhouse natural ingredients: garlic and raw honey.

Each of these ingredients provide many wonderful benefits for health. And when they are infused together, they can provide a variety of potential benefits.

In this post, I’m going to break down some of these healthful benefits and how we use garlic infused honey in our home. Plus, a simple recipe for making it yourself at home.

small mason jar filled with garlic infused honey.
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Disclaimer: Please note, this post is for educational purposes only and I am not a healthcare provider. I have researched and cited several sources for you, but recommend that you do your own research if desired.

Health Benefits of Garlic-Infused Honey

Garlic infused honey is great at supporting the immune system. Garlic is rich in compounds like allicin, which has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.

Honey contains antioxidants and enzymes that can help fight infection and soothe the throat.

And together, they may help strengthen the immune system and ward off colds and flu. This is a regular part of our families wellness routine — especially during the cold & flu season.

Honey coats the throat and reduces irritation and making this garlic honey is our natural cough syrup remedy that does not contain any artificial chemicals or unwanted ingredients. And garlic’s natural compounds may also help clear congestion and fight respiratory infections.

More key benefits of garlic honey

  • Anti-inflammatory effects:
    • Garlic contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can support overall wellness (source).
    • Honey also helps calm inflammation and oxidative stress in the body (source).
  • Digestive health:
    • Garlic supports gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful microbes (source).
    • Honey acts as a prebiotic, feeding healthy gut flora (source).
  • Energy & General Wellness:
    • Honey provides quick natural energy (source).
    • Garlic supports detoxification and overall vitality (source).
plate with garlic cloves and jar of honey on a table.
Important Note
  • Raw honey should be used (not pasteurized), as heating can destroy its beneficial enzymes.
  • Garlic should be fresh (not powdered) for maximum health effects.
  • Some people may experience stomach upset if consumed in large amounts. Check with your healthcare provider for profession advice.
  • Raw honey is not recommended for children under 1 year old due to the risk of infant botulism.
  • If you take blood thinners or have certain medical conditions, consult a doctor before using garlic regularly.

🧄🍯 How to Make Garlic Infused Honey

Garlic infused honey is a simple, natural remedy that combines the immune-boosting power of raw honey with the antibacterial and antiviral properties of fresh garlic.

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Together, they help soothe sore throats, calm coughs, and support the body’s defenses during cold and flu season.

Beyond seasonal wellness, this infusion also promotes gut health, reduces inflammation, and supports overall vitality.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw honey (local if possible)
  • 6–8 cloves fresh garlic (organic is best)
ingredients for the garlic infused honey on a table.

Instructions

  1. Peel & lightly crush the garlic
    • Press each clove with the flat side of a knife or the bottom of a jar. Crushing activates allicin, the compound responsible for garlic’s strong medicinal properties.
  2. Add garlic to a clean glass jar
  3. Pour raw honey over the garlic
    • Make sure the cloves are fully submerged.
  4. Seal the jar loosely
    • Garlic will release gases during fermentation, so don’t tighten the lid too much.
    • Some people have recommended the use a fermentation lid to let gases escape, but I’ve never had a need for it when making garlic infused honey. You can check it often and loosen the lid daily to help the gases to escape.
  5. Let it infuse
    • Store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight.
    • Stir or flip the jar every day or two to keep the garlic coated.
    • After about 3–7 days, the flavors will blend nicely. You can use it right away, but the flavor deepens over time.
smashing and peeling garlic cloves with a knife on a cutting board.
filling a small mason jar with garlic cloves and honey.
giving the mason jar with the garlic cloves and honey a gentle shake.

How to Use Garlic Honey

  • Immune boost: Take 1 teaspoon daily during cold/flu season.
  • At first sign of illness: Take ½–1 teaspoon every few hours.
  • For sore throat/cough: Eat a spoonful straight or stir into warm (not boiling) tea.
  • For digestion: Take a small spoonful before meals.
  • Culinary use: Drizzle over roasted veggies, spread on warm bread, or whisk into salad dressings for a sweet-savory kick.

Safety notes

  • Never give honey to children under 1 year.
  • If you’re sensitive to raw garlic, start with smaller amounts.
  • If you see mold (rare if cloves are fully submerged), discard.
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small mason jar filled with garlic infused honey on a wooden cutting board.

How to store garlic-infused honey

Store in a cool, dark place with an airtight lid. Garlic-infused honey can be good for months of even for years, if stored properly. All garlic cloves should be completely covered by honey to prevent spoilage. If you see mold (rare if cloves are fully submerged), discard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Garlic infused honey is a traditional folk remedy made by steeping fresh garlic cloves in raw honey. The garlic releases beneficial compounds into the honey, creating a sweet and savory infusion with natural healing properties.

It may help support the immune system, fight off colds and flu, soothe sore throats and coughs, reduce inflammation, and promote gut and heart health.

Take a spoonful straight, stir it into warm (not boiling) tea, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or use in dressings and marinades.

You can start using it after 3–7 days, but the flavor and potency deepen the longer it infuses.

Properly stored at room temperature (out of direct sunlight), it usually keeps for months, or even up to a year. Refrigeration extends shelf life, though honey may crystallize.

Yes, garlic releases natural juices that may cause light fermentation, creating small bubbles. This is normal and safe if stored properly.

Children over 1 year old can enjoy it in small amounts. Never give honey to infants under 1 year due to the risk of botulism.

Yes! The cloves become soft, sweet, and mild over time, and they carry many of the same health benefits.

While not a cure, garlic honey has natural antimicrobial and soothing properties that may shorten the duration of symptoms and support recovery.

Those allergic to garlic or honey, and people on certain medications (like blood thinners), should consult a doctor before regular use.

    • Did you make this recipe?

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    Thank you! ~ Mary

    small mason jar filled with garlic infused honey on a wooden cutting board.

    Garlic Infused Honey

    Garlic infused honey is a simple, natural remedy that combines the immune-boosting power of raw honey with the antibacterial and antiviral properties of fresh garlic.
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes
    Serving Size 48

    Equipment

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup raw honey (local if possible)
    • 6-8 cloves garlic (organic is best)

    Instructions

    • Peel and lightly crush the garlic. Press each clove with the flat side of a knife or the bottom of a jar. Crushing activates allicin, the compound responsible for garlic’s strong medicinal properties.
    • Add the garlic to a clean glass jar and pour the raw honey over the garlic. Make sure the cloves are fully submerged.
    • Seal the jar loosely. Garlic will release gases during fermentation, so don’t tighten the lid too much. You can check it often and loosen the lid daily to help the gases to escape.
    • Store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Stir or flip the jar every day or two to keep the garlic coated.After about 3–7 days, the flavors will blend nicely. You can use it right away, but the flavor deepens over time.

    Notes

    Store in a cool, dark place with an airtight lid. Garlic-infused honey can be good for months of even for years, if stored properly. All garlic cloves should be completely covered by honey to prevent spoilage.

    How to Use Garlic Honey

    • Immune boost: Take 1 teaspoon daily during cold/flu season.
    • At first sign of illness: Take ½–1 teaspoon every few hours. 
    • For sore throat/cough: Eat a spoonful straight or stir into warm (not boiling) tea.
    • For digestion: Take a small spoonful before meals.
    • Culinary use: Drizzle over roasted veggies, spread on warm bread, or whisk into salad dressings for a sweet-savory kick.

    Safety Note:

    • Never give honey to children under 1 year.
    • If you’re sensitive to raw garlic, start with smaller amounts.
    • If you see mold (rare if cloves are fully submerged), discard.

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