The combination of garlic, honey, and cloves is often referred to in traditional herbalism as “The Golden Elixir.” For generations, this trio has been a staple in kitchen apothecaries, valued for its ability to support the body through seasonal changes and provide a gentle boost to overall vitality. It is a wonderful example of how simple, wholesome ingredients can work in harmony.
The Power of the Trio
Each ingredient in this blend offers a unique form of support:
- Garlic: As we’ve discussed, garlic is a powerhouse of allicin, which supports heart health and a resilient immune system.
- Cloves: These are incredibly rich in antioxidants and provide a warming quality that helps soothe the digestive tract and clear the senses.
- Honey: Raw, local honey is a natural “prebiotic” that supports gut health. It also acts as a gentle medium that preserves the garlic and cloves, making their nutrients more bioavailable.+1
The Gentle Benefits
- Seasonal Resilience: Taking a spoonful of this mixture is a traditional way to prepare the body for chilly weather.
- Soothing the Throat: The honey coats the throat, while the cloves and garlic provide natural, purifying properties.
- Digestive Warmth: The warming nature of cloves and ginger-like heat from garlic can help stimulate a sluggish digestion.
The Traditional “Golden Elixir”
This infusion is easy to prepare and gets better with time. It transforms the sharp taste of garlic into something mellow and savory-sweet.
The Spiced Garlic & Honey Tonic
- 1 whole head of garlic (peeled and lightly crushed)
- 10 whole cloves
- 1 cup of raw, organic honey (or enough to completely submerge the ingredients)
- A clean glass jar with a tight lid
Instructions:
- Prepare the Garlic: Peel the cloves and give them a light crush with the flat of a knife. Remember the 10-minute rule: let the crushed garlic sit for 10 minutes to activate the beneficial allicin before adding it to the honey.
- Combine: Place the garlic and the whole cloves into your glass jar.
- Infuse: Pour the honey over the garlic and cloves. Stir gently to ensure there are no air bubbles and that everything is fully submerged.
- Wait: Close the lid and store the jar in a dark, cool place for 3 to 5 days. You will notice the honey becomes thinner as the garlic juices infuse into it.
- Enjoy: Take one teaspoon of the infused honey (you can eat the garlic clove too!) once a day, or stir a spoonful into a cup of warm (not boiling) water.
