Fermented honey garlic is a simple yet powerful natural remedy that has been used for centuries to support immune health, digestion, and overall wellness. With just two ingredients—garlic and raw honey—you can create a probiotic-rich, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial elixir that enhances your health naturally. Whether you’re looking for a natural cold and flu remedy, a gut-friendly ferment, or an easy way to add health-boosting ingredients to your diet, this is a must-have in your kitchen.

A Little History & Science Behind Fermented Honey Garlic

Garlic has been a staple in traditional medicine for thousands of years, used by the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Chinese for its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. Honey, often called “liquid gold,” has been revered for its ability to heal wounds, fight infections, and soothe sore throats. When you combine the two and allow them to ferment, you create a powerful remedy that is rich in enzymes, probiotics, and immune-boosting compounds.

Fermentation enhances the properties of garlic by breaking it down into a more bioavailable form, making it easier for the body to absorb its nutrients. The natural fermentation process also adds gut-friendly probiotics, which support digestion and overall health.

Health Benefits of Fermented Honey Garlic

Fermenting garlic in honey not only preserves it but also enhances its medicinal properties. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your daily routine:

Boosts Immunity – Fights off colds, flu, and infections naturally
Powerful Anti-Inflammatory – Reduces inflammation, making it great for joint pain and chronic conditions
Supports Gut Health – Fermentation creates probiotics that aid digestion and improve gut balance
Promotes Heart Health – Garlic is known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels
Regulates Blood Sugar – Garlic improves insulin sensitivity and supports balanced blood sugar levels
Antibacterial & Antiviral – A natural alternative to store-bought antibiotics and medicines
Natural Energy Booster – Provides sustained energy without blood sugar crashes

Regular consumption of fermented honey garlic may help your body fight infections, regulate digestion, and maintain long-term wellness.

How to Make Fermented Honey Garlic

Making fermented honey garlic at home is incredibly easy, and with a little patience, you’ll have a natural remedy ready to use.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 cup raw, unpasteurized honey (local is best for extra health bene

Instructions:

1. Remove any bad or damaged garlic cloves and discard them.
2. Trim the ends of each garlic clove slightly before adding them to the jar. This helps release their natural juices and speeds up fermentation.
3. Peel the garlic cloves and place them in a clean glass jar (about ¾ full).
4. Pour raw honey over the garlic, ensuring all cloves are fully covered.
5. Loosely cover the jar with a lid (don’t tighten too much; gases from fermentation need to escape).
6. Store at room temperature in a dark place for at least 2 weeks, occasionally flipping or stirring the jar to keep the garlic coated.
7. After 2 weeks, the garlic and honey will be ready to use, but allowing it to ferment longer enhances its benefits.

Storage Tips for Fermented Honey Garlic

• Store the jar at room temperature in a dark, cool place.
• The honey will naturally thin out over time as the garlic releases its juices.
• If you see tiny bubbles, that means fermentation is working—don’t worry, it’s a good sign!
• The longer it ferments, the milder the garlic flavor becomes.
• Shelf Life: At least 6 months to 1 year, thanks to honey’s natural preservation properties.

How to Use Fermented Honey Garlic

One of the best things about fermented honey garlic is its versatility! Here are some easy ways to use it:

• Take a garlic clove daily for immune support (especially in cold & flu season)
• Use the honey in tea or warm water as a natural cough remedy
• Drizzle over roasted veggies, toast, or yogurt for a sweet-savory health boost
• Mix into salad dressings & marinades for extra flavor and health benefits
• Mash and spread onto bread or crackers as a natural antibiotic boost
• Blend into smoothies for added antimicrobial power

This remedy is perfect for families, athletes, or anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle naturally.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Fermented Honey Garlic

Fermented honey garlic is a simple yet powerful natural wellness remedy that’s easy to make and incredibly beneficial. Whether you’re looking for an immune booster, gut-friendly ferment, or a natural energy source, this two-ingredient remedy is a game-changer. Plus, it’s tasty, easy to store, and lasts for months!

Looking for more ways to incorporate natural remedies into your lifestyle? Check out some of my other DIY herbal recipes, like my homemade herbal cough syrup for soothing sore throats or my immune-boosting juice shots packed with vitamins and antioxidants. If you love making your own natural remedies, don’t miss my guides on DIY herbal sleep mist and homemade tallow cream for non-toxic skincare and relaxation.

xo Marla Kay

The post Fermented Honey Garlic appeared first on Everyday Marla Kay.

Tip: Pick one or two of these add-ins for each batch based on what your family needs most during the season. Not only will your syrup be more tailored to your wellness goals, but it will also taste unique every time.

Making elderberry syrup is a fun and easy way to boost your immune system during cold and flu season. Here’s how to make it at home:

Note: I make my elderberry syrup with all organic products from Amazon. I have attached direct links to each of my favorites. I buy fresh honey from a local farmers market. This site contains Amazon Associate affiliate links. 

Ingredients:

• 4 cups dried organic elderberries
• 8 cups water
• 2 cinnamon stickor 1 teaspoon ceylon cinnamon
• 1 Tablespoon organic ginger (ground, fresh or root)
• 1/2 teaspoon organic whole dried cloves about 4 or 5 cloves
• 2 cups organic honey (you can add more or less based on taste)

Instructions:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the elderberries, water, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by half.
• Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
• Discard the solids and return the liquid to the saucepan. Add the honey and stir until it is fully dissolved.
• Pour the syrup into a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. Take 1 tablespoon daily to support your immune system and ward off colds and flu.

Crockpot Method (Hands-Off Option)

Prefer a more hands-off approach? You can easily make elderberry syrup in your slow cooker:

1. Add all ingredients (except honey) to your Crockpot.
2. Set to low and let it gently simmer for 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain, let cool, and stir in honey once the liquid is warm but not hot.

This method is perfect if you want to start it in the morning and have a batch ready by evening with minimal attention needed.

NOTE: The jars pictured are 32oz glass jars from Amazon, and as you can see, I get one full jar and half of another from each batch. I will link the jars HERE.

xo Marla Kay

The post Homemade Elderberry Syrup Recipe appeared first on Everyday Marla Kay.

1. Marshmallow Root Tea

Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a gelatinous substance that coats and soothes the throat. This remedy is perfect for dry, scratchy throats and coughs.

How to Make:

• Add 1 tablespoon of dried marshmallow root to a tea infuser.
• Pour 8 ounces of hot (but not boiling) water over the herb.
• Let it steep for about 10 minutes.
• Strain and sip slowly.

The mucilage from marshmallow root provides a soothing coating, making it a go-to remedy for throat irritation.

2. Licorice Root Tea

Licorice root is another powerful herbal remedy that can help with a sore throat. It has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties, making it a great choice for tackling the root cause of discomfort.

How to Make:

• Add 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root to 8 ounces of boiling water.
• Let it steep for 5–10 minutes.
• Strain and enjoy up to 2–3 times per day.

Note: Licorice root is not recommended for those with high blood pressure or certain medical conditions, so consult your healthcare provider before use.

3. Honey & Ginger Syrup

Honey is well-known for its throat-soothing qualities, and when paired with ginger, it packs an even greater punch. Ginger helps reduce inflammation and boosts circulation, while honey coats the throat and offers natural antimicrobial benefits.

How to Make:

• Grate a 2-inch piece of fresh ginger and simmer in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes.
• Strain the ginger and allow the liquid to cool.
• Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of raw honey.
• Take 1 tablespoon as needed for sore throat relief.

The warmth and spiciness of ginger also help to clear congestion and enhance immune response.

4. Slippery Elm Lozenges

Slippery elm, like marshmallow root, contains mucilage that coats the throat and alleviates irritation. You can make slippery elm lozenges at home with just a few ingredients.

How to Make:

• Combine 1 tablespoon of slippery elm bark powder with enough warm water to form a thick paste.
• Shape the mixture into small lozenges and let them dry overnight.
• Suck on these lozenges as needed throughout the day.

Slippery elm is a gentle remedy, safe for most people, and perfect for soothing chronic throat irritation.

5. Sage Gargle

Sage has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties that make it a great herb for sore throats. A sage gargle can help reduce swelling and fight off infection-causing bacteria.

How to Make:

• Steep 1 teaspoon of dried sage in 1 cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
• Strain and let it cool to a comfortable temperature.
• Gargle with the tea for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
• Repeat 2–3 times per day.

Sage’s healing properties also make it helpful for gum inflammation and mouth sores, making this remedy a multi-use solution.

6. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is well-known for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects, making it an excellent choice for sore throats caused by irritation or swelling. Drinking chamomile tea can soothe the throat and promote relaxation, which is essential for recovery.

How to Make:

• Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
• Strain and sip throughout the day.

Chamomile also has mild sedative effects, which can help you rest more easily while fighting off illness.

7. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint contains menthol, which acts as a natural decongestant and throat soother. It helps to numb the throat and reduce pain, making it a refreshing option for sore throat relief.

How to Make:

• Steep 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 10 minutes.
• Strain and enjoy a cooling, soothing cup of tea.

Peppermint tea can also help clear sinus congestion and support overall respiratory health.

8. Gargling with Salt Water

Though not strictly an herbal remedy, gargling with salt water is a tried-and-true method for easing sore throat pain. It helps reduce swelling, loosen mucus, and wash away bacteria.

How to Make:

• Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water.
• Gargle for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
• Repeat as needed throughout the day.

For an added boost, consider adding a pinch of turmeric to the saltwater mixture. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce throat irritation and fight infections.

Tips for Using Herbal Remedies

• Choose organic, high-quality herbs: For the best results, always choose organic herbs that are free from pesticides or chemicals. Your health is the priority, so sourcing clean ingredients is essential.
• Check for contraindications: While herbs are natural, they can still interact with medications or preexisting health conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting new herbal remedies.
• Stay hydrated: Keeping your throat moist is key to healing, so drink plenty of water and warm herbal teas.

Shop Products Mentioned in this Post:

You can find all of these products on Amazon, and I’ve handpicked the best options for quality and effectiveness. I only recommend products that I personally trust and use. You’ll find the links to purchase these herbal ingredients below, so you can easily stock up on the essentials for your DIY sore throat remedies. Shopping through these links also helps support this blog, allowing me to continue providing valuable wellness content for you.

Click to shop links– *This site contains Amazon Associate affiliate links.

• Dried Marshmallow Root
• Dried Licorice Root
• Raw Honey
• Fresh Ginger Root – I buy it from my local grocery store
• Slippery Elm Bark Powder
• Dried Sage
• Dried Chamomile Flowers
• Dried Peppermint Leaves
• Turmeric Powder

Final Thoughts

Herbal remedies offer a gentle, natural way to soothe sore throats and promote faster recovery. Whether you’re sipping on marshmallow root tea, gargling with sage, or taking honey and ginger syrup, these natural remedies provide effective relief while supporting your overall health.

Give these DIY herbal treatments a try next time you feel a scratchy throat coming on. Your body will thank you for the natural support!

xo Marla Kay

The post DIY Herbal Remedies for a Sore Throat appeared first on Everyday Marla Kay.

Crafting Your Own DIY Organic Cough Syrup. As the chilly winds of winter sweep in, so do the seasonal coughs and colds. While over-the-counter cough syrups are readily available, many people are opting for a more natural approach to alleviate their symptoms. Enter the world of DIY organic cough syrup – a concoction of wholesome ingredients that not only soothe your throat but also nourish your body without the artificial additives. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of creating your own organic cough syrup and provide you with a simple, effective recipe to keep on hand during the colder months.

Benefits of DIY Organic Cough Syrup:

1. Natural Ingredients: Store-bought cough syrups often contain synthetic chemicals and additives. Creating your own organic version allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a natural and wholesome remedy for your cough.
2. Customization: DIY cough syrup recipes are highly versatile, allowing you to tailor the ingredients to suit your preferences and specific symptoms. Whether you prefer a honey base or want to incorporate immune-boosting herbs, the choice is yours.
3. Healthier Alternative: Many commercial cough syrups contain high levels of sugar and artificial sweeteners. By making your own syrup, you can choose healthier sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, providing sweetness with added nutritional benefits.
4. Nourishing Ingredients: Organic cough syrups often include ingredients like ginger, lemon, and herbs that offer additional health benefits. These ingredients can boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and provide antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being.

DIY Organic Cough Syrup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup organic honey
• 1/4 cup fresh organic lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated organic ginger
• 1 teaspoon dried organic thyme
• 1 teaspoon organic chamomile flowers (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon organic cinnamon
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix the honey, fresh lemon juice, grated ginger, dried thyme, chamomile flowers (if using), cinnamon, and water.
2. Heat Gently: Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until well combined. Be cautious not to bring the mixture to a boil, as high heat may reduce the effectiveness of certain ingredients.
3. Strain (Optional): For a smoother syrup, strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve to remove the ginger, thyme, and chamomile remnants.
4. Cool and Store: Allow the syrup to cool completely before transferring it to a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
5. Usage: Take one to two teaspoons of the syrup as needed to soothe cough and sore throat symptoms.

NOTE: While the ingredients in this DIY organic cough syrup are generally considered safe for adults, it’s important to exercise caution when considering homemade remedies for children, especially those under the age of one. Honey, one of the main ingredients, should not be given to infants under one year old due to the risk of infant botulism.

For older children, you can consider modifying the recipe to make it suitable for them. Here’s a child-friendly version of the recipe:

Child-Friendly DIY Organic Cough Syrup Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup organic honey
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon chamomile flowers (optional) Click to shop
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

Follow the same instructions as the original recipe, adjusting the ingredient quantities for a smaller batch suitable for children. Always consult with your child’s healthcare provider before introducing new remedies, especially if your child has any existing health conditions or is taking medication.

Additionally, you may want to introduce the syrup gradually, starting with a smaller dose to ensure there are no adverse reactions. If you have concerns or if your child’s symptoms persist, it’s advisable to seek professional medical advice.

Remember, individual reactions to natural remedies can vary, so it’s crucial to be attentive to your child’s response and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any doubts about the safety or appropriateness of the remedy for your child’s age and health status.

Conclusion:

Embracing a DIY organic cough syrup is not only a delightful foray into natural remedies but also a step toward a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. By incorporating wholesome ingredients and steering clear of artificial additives, you can confidently combat winter ailments while enjoying the numerous health benefits these natural remedies offer. Adding water not only helps create a liquid consistency but also aids in the extraction of medicinal properties from herbs and spices, ensuring a well-rounded and effective DIY organic cough syrup. Feel free to adjust the honey or water ratios based on your taste preferences and desired thickness of the syrup.

So, the next time you feel a tickle in your throat, turn to your homemade organic cough syrup for a dose of comfort and well-being.

XO Marla Kay

Check out my other homemade remedies by clicking here.

This site contains Amazon Associate affiliate links.

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