Garlic Tea Recipe for Colds and Allergies

Passed down from generations, garlic tea has amazing health benefits and offers relief from cold and seasonal allergy symptoms. So let me show how to make this easy Garlic Tea Recipe and learn all about this simple, yet potent, herbal remedy.

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White mug with garlic tea on a coaster with a lime and garlic cloves around it

I am a big proponent of the healing qualities of natural remedies, such as Homemade Cough Syrup and Gordolobo Tea. Whenever possible I turn to these treatments and try to avoid over-the-counter and prescription medicines.

Today I have another effective home remedy that provides great relief for seasonal allergies and can also help banish stubborn colds.

This trustee remedy is garlic tea. I grew up seeing my dad drink this powerful elixir whenever he was sick and it is one I now turn to as an adult for its amazing benefits.

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What is Garlic Tea?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
The Ingredients
How to Make Garlic Tea
Tips and Variations
FAQ
Recipe

What is Garlic Tea?

Garlic tea is an herbal drink made by steeping fresh garlic in hot water. It is used in many different cultures to alleviate various ailments, from insomnia to high cholesterol to weight loss and more.

Personally, I find it best at alleviating symptoms of seasonal allergies, colds and other common respiratory afflictions.

As you will see, the process of making garlic tea is simple but its benefits are many.

Please note that while garlic tea has been traditionally used for its potential health benefits, individual experiences may vary. It is always best to consult with your doctor before trying anything, especially with small children.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Garlic tea is easy to make with only 4 common ingredients that you probably have in your kitchen already.
Boosts Immune System: Three of those ingredients, garlic, honey and lime, are known for their antiviral and antioxidant properties.
Supports Respiratory Health: Garlic tea may provide relief for congestion and soothe the respiratory system. It is commonly used to treat symptoms of colds, coughs, flu, and bronchitis.
Allergy Relief: The anti-inflammatory properties can also help with allergy symptoms.
Eliminates Toxins: Garlic is said to have detoxifying properties, which helps in the body's natural processes of eliminating toxins.
Traditional & Homeopathic: Coming from Mexico my parents acquired many homeopathic remedies that, just like this one, have been passed down for generations and have proven very effective.

The Ingredients

Container of honey, jar with water, garlic, and a lime

Garlic: Using fresh garlic cloves is best since they retain their natural nutrients and will have the highest potential health benefits.
Honey: Not only does honey sweeten the tea to make it more palatable, but it is also a natural antibacterial and helps coat and relieve sore throats and coughs. Keep in mind that honey should never be given to children under the age of one because it could contain botulism spores that can make a baby extremely sick.
Lime or Lemon: Fresh lime or lemon juice also enhance the tea's flavor, plus are rich in vitamin C, which can provide additional immune-boosting effects.
Water: Use hot water that is not boiling. Boiling water is not recommended as it can actually decrease the beneficial value of the ingredients in the tea.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Garlic Tea

white mug, a garlic press and garlic cloves on a wood cutting board

Mug with crushed garlic and a garlic press on the side

1. Heat Water

Using a kettle or small saucepan, bring water to a boil.
Remove from heat and allow to cool for 4-5 minutes.

2. Prepare Garlic

Meanwhile, peel garlic clove.
Crush with a garlic press or mince finely.
Add to a mug.

Pressing lime into a white mug with crushed garlic

3. Steep Garlic

Fill the mug with the hot water.
Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the garlic to steep.

4. Add Other Ingredients

Add 2-3 teaspoons of honey.
Add juice of half a lime.
Stir to dissolve honey.
Enjoy warm.

How to Serve

You can leave the garlic in the tea and, if you don't mind the taste, you can actually drink some of the pieces to get more of the effects of the garlic. For a milder flavor, you can also strain the tea to remove the garlic pieces.

It is best to make one cup of tea at a time and drink it while warm. The warmth from the tea itself is great at soothing sore throats and cold symptoms.

Tips and Variations

Ginger and Garlic Tea: Some people like to add ginger for its anti-inflammatory and digestive support. It also adds a different flavor and helps mellow out the garlic taste.
Crush or Mince Garlic: Be sure to peel the garlic cloves and crush them with a garlic press or mince them. Crushing or mincing the garlic helps release the beneficial compounds.

FAQ

How often should I drink garlic tea?

When sick or suffering from seasonal allergies, you can drink garlic tea every morning and up to 2-3 times a day. How often you drink it though is really up to you and your individual health conditions. Be sure to listen to your body and adjust the frequency based on how you feel and any potential reactions you may have.

Are there any side effects or precautions associated with garlic tea?

Garlic tea is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, too much garlic may cause digestive discomfort, heartburn, or bad breath. Some individuals may also be allergic to garlic, so be sure to watch out for any adverse reactions. If you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, consult with a doctor before incorporating garlic tea into your routine.

I hope you enjoy! If you try this recipe, please leave me a comment with a star rating below. Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest to stay in touch, and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter.

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