40 Health Benefits of Fermented Garlic + How to Make It

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Last Updated on September 28, 2023

Adding garlic to your diet can improve your health in a variety of ways. But what about fermented garlic? Learn about all the amazing health benefits of fermented garlic as as well as how to easily make it yourself.

Health Benefits of Fermented Garlic

There are some pretty astounding health benefits of garlic. Raw garlic has numerous health benefits, but when you ferment it, you gain helpful probiotics.  The fermentation process leaves you with cloves of garlic that are full of immune-boosting properties.

Before we explore all the health benefits of fermented garlic, let’s take a look at what fermented garlic is.

Fermented Garlic

Fermented garlic is garlic cloves that have gone through the process of lacto-fermentation that result in a form of aged garlic. This process enhances the garlic’s natural benefits, amplifies its flavor, and makes it easier to digest.

The fermentation process involves aging fresh garlic in honey for several weeks, until it becomes tangy, mellow, and rich in probiotics.

There are two main ways to ferment garlic – using raw honey (it makes garlic honey) and fermenting it with ginger (or even a combination of both). Some people like pickled garlic. Fire cider is another popular way to consume fermented garlic.

You might also enjoy: Air Fryer Roasted Garlic

You can learn how to ferment garlic and make pickled garlic towards the bottom of this post. 

Potential Health Benefits of Fermented Garlic

The possible health benefits of fermented garlic are astounding! Not only can it benefit your overall health, but it’s chock-full of antibacterial properties and can benefit your digestive system in a myriad of ways.

Fermented garlic is a good source of antioxidants and can help fight free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to cells. Read on to learn about 40 potential health benefits of consuming fermented garlic.

1.) Boosts Immune System

Fermented garlic is rich in antioxidants and probiotics that aid in strengthening the immune system.

2.) Enhances Cardiovascular Health

Garlice that’s been fermented helps in reducing blood pressure and total cholesterol levels, promoting heart health and the prevention of a heart attack.

3.) Supports Digestion

The probiotics present in fermented garlic aids in healthy gut bioflora, supporting digestion processes.

4.) Anti-Cancer Properties

Regular consumption of fermented garlic may inhibit the growth of cancerous cells due to its antioxidant properties. It has been shown to possibly help prevent stomach cancer and brain cancer.

5.) Detoxification

Fermented garlic can help the body eliminate toxins, aiding in liver health.

6.) Anti-aging Benefits

The antioxidants in fermented garlic can help reduce the signs of skin aging.

7.) Reduces Inflammation

Fermetned garlic has anti-inflammatory properties that can lessen swelling and pain in the body.

8.) Bone Health

The richness of essential nutrients in fermented garlic can promote bone health.

9.) Increases Energy Levels

Fermented garlic is a superfood that can boost your metabolism and energy levels.

10.) Promotes Mental Health

The antioxidants found in fermented garlic help to reduce oxidative stress, promoting better brain function and possibly helping to prevent alzheimer’s disease.

11.) Anti-Bacterial Properties

Garlic that’s been fermented can fight against various harmful bacteria.

12.) Anti-Viral

Fermented garlic can help to prevent the onset of colds and flu.

13.) Anti-Fungal

You can betreat various fungal infections with fermented garlic.

14.) Blood Sugar

It may assist in regulating blood sugar levels.

15.) Wound Healing

Topical application can speed up the healing process of wounds.

16.) Reduces the Risk of Anemia

Its iron content can help in the formation of red blood cells.

17.) Weight Loss

Fermented garlic might assist in weight loss due to its metabolism-boosting properties.

18.) Hair Growth

The nutrients found in fermented garlic may promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.

19.) Eye Health

It is a good source of nutrients that promote eye health.

20.) Reduces Stress

Its adaptogenic properties can help manage stress levels.

21.) Enhances Sexual Health

Consuming fermented garlic can improve fertility and sexual drive.

22.) Treats Insomnia

Garlic that’s been fermented may help people with sleep disorders.

23.) Improves Skin Health

It can improve skin health by reducing acne and other skin issues.

24.) Increases Lifespan

The antioxidants and other nutrients in fermented garlic can increase longevity, thus slowing down the aging process.

25.) Promotes Respiratory Health

Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may help in treating respiratory conditions.

26.) Prevents Kidney Stones

It can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.

27.) Treats Ear Infections

Due to its anti-bacterial properties, fermented garlic can help treat ear infections.

28.) Heals Herpes

Topical application of garlic might help in managing herpes symptoms.

29.) Hangover Cure

It aids in detoxification, thereby helping to eliminate hangover symptoms.

30.) Treats Asthma

Its anti-inflammatory properties may help manage asthma symptoms.

31.) Prevents Allergies

Fermented garlic might help reduce allergic reactions.

32.) Prevents Cold Sores

It has antiviral properties that can aid in preventing cold sores.

33.) Treats Bronchitis

It can help manage symptoms of bronchitis due to its anti-inflammatory effect.

34.) Improves Liver Function

Its antioxidant properties can improve liver health.

35.) Treats Sinusitis

Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may help in managing sinusitis.

36.) Relieves Toothache

When rubbed on the affected area, it can provide relief from a toothache.

37.) Treats Hemorrhoids

Its anti-inflammatory properties can help manage symptoms of hemorrhoids.

38.) Improves Iron Absorption

Fermented garlic aids in the absorption of iron, preventing iron deficiency anemia.

39.) Treats Hyperthyroid Conditions

It can help manage symptoms of hyperthyroid disorders.

40.) Prevents Stroke

Regular consumption of fermented garlic can reduce the risk of stroke due to its blood-thinning properties.

Fermented Garlic and Honey

Fermented garlic and honey is a powerful health-boosting combination that is prepared by combining garlic cloves and honey, then allowing them to naturally ferment over time. The fermentation process enhances the nutritional benefits of both these super-foods, making them even more beneficial for our health.

What Does Fermented Garlic Honey Taste Like?

The taste can be described as a unique blend of savory garlic and sweet honey, with a slightly tangy undertone due to the fermentation. It’s a complex and rich flavor profile that may take some getting used to, but is highly enjoyable for many.

Why Ferment Garlic in Honey?

Honey is used in the fermentation process due to its natural preservative properties. It helps to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, while facilitating an environment where beneficial probiotics can flourish.

Plus, the quercetin in garlic is kicked up a notch due to the fermentation process!

This fermented duo is relatively simple to make at home and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes or taken as a daily wellness shot.

Is Honey Fermented Garlic Safe?

Honey fermented garlic is indeed safe to consume. This traditional delicacy combines the natural, medicinal benefits of garlic and honey, both of which have been used since ancient times for their healing properties.

Fermented Garlic and Ginger

Fermented garlic and ginger is prepared through a natural process of fermentation. This method enhances their nutritional value and creates a distinctive flavor profile. Compared to honey fermented garlic, fermented garlic and ginger has a more complex taste due to the added zing of ginger and lacks the sweet note that honey provides.

Why Ferment Garlic with Ginger?

The fermentation process makes the beneficial compounds in garlic and ginger more bioavailable, thus promoting overall health.

What Does Fermented Garlic and Ginger Taste Like?

The taste of fermented garlic and ginger is a unique combination of garlic’s robustness, ginger’s spiciness, and a slight tanginess from the fermentation process.

Pickled Garlic

Pickled garlic is a delectable concoction of garlic cloves and a pickling solution. It’s a simple process to create – just peel fresh garlic cloves, simmer them in vinegar and salt, then transfer into jars and refrigerate. Patience is key as the flavor matures over a few weeks.

Imagine the robust, pungent flavor of garlic, softened by pickling into a mild, slightly sweet flavor, with a tangy undertone brought by the vinegar. It retains the garlic essence without the overpowering heat.

Uses for pickled garlic are vast. It can be used in the same way as regular garlic in many recipes, adding a unique flavor twist. It’s a great addition to salads, salsas, and antipasto platters, and can even be eaten straight out of the jar as a low-calorie snack.

How to Make Fermented Garlic with Honey

This fermented garlic and honey recipe is simple to prepare and provides numerous health benefits. The fermentation process enhances the natural benefits of both ingredients, creating a potent wellness supplement.

Making fermented garlic at home is easy! You only need a couple ingredients, depending on what type of feremented garlic you want to make: honey garlic or fermented garlic with ginger.

Ingredients for Fermented Honey Garlic

Here’s what you need to make fermented garlic with honey:

1. Organic raw white garlic
2. Raw, unpasteurized honey
3. A clean glass jar with a lid (sterilize the jar)

How to Make Fermented Garlic Honey

Here’s how you can easily make fermented garlic with honey. You can scroll to the bottom of this post to print a recipe card.

• Step 1 – Preparing the ingredients: Select fresh garlic bulbs (make sure they are organic). Peel the cloves and set them aside. Ensure that the garlic cloves are free from blemishes and are not sprouting.
• Step 2 – Filling the jar: Take a clean Mason jar and start filling it with the peeled organic garlic cloves. Fill the jar to about half or two-thirds full.
• Step 3 – Adding honey:  Pour raw honey over the garlic cloves in the jar. Ensure the honey completely covers the cloves.
• Step 4 – Mixing the ingredients: Stir the mixture with a clean spoon to remove air bubbles and ensure that the garlic is fully coated with honey.
• Step 5 – Sealing and storing: Seal the jar tightly. Then, leave it on a countertop in a dark place at room temperature.
• Step 6 – Fermentation process: Fermentation begins within a few days. You may notice bubbles and the honey may become more liquid – this is a good sign. Stir the mixture every day for a month to ensure all garlic cloves are coated in the honey.
• Step 7 – Ready to use: After a month, the fermented garlic in honey is ready to use. It can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

IMPORTANT: it’s vital to ensure the garlic is completely submerged in its brine during storage. Exposure to air could lead to the growth of harmful bacteria, which could spoil the fermentation process, reducing its shelf life and safety.

How to Use Fermented Garlic Honey

As a health supplement, consume one clove of garlic and one teaspoon of honey each day. These can be added to food or drinks, or consumed on their own. The use of garlic that’s been fermented is similar to that of regular garlic when it comes to cooking.

• Salad Dressings: You can make your own with olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, fermented garlic, dried oregano, and sea salt.
• Marinades: Fermented garlic honey can be an exceptional ingredient for imparting an umami-rich, sweet, and tangy flavor to your marinades. It works particularly well with poultry and pork.
• Glazing: Utilize fermented garlic honey as a glaze to add a glossy, mouthwatering finish to your roasted vegetables or meats.
• Sauces: The addition of fermented garlic honey to your homemade sauces can elevate their flavor profile. It works well in barbecue sauces, pasta sauces, and even in sweet-savory dessert sauces.
• Roasts: Enhance your roast dishes by applying a rub of fermented garlic honey. This not only infuses the meat with a unique flavor but also creates a beautiful, caramelized crust on the surface.
• Grilled Dishes: Brush some fermented garlic honey on your grilled meat or vegetables. It caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the smoky flavor of your grilled dishes.
• Cocktails: Believe it or not, fermented garlic honey can also be a secret ingredient in your cocktails, adding an intriguing savory-sweet note.

How to Make Fermented Garlic with Ginger

Ingredients for Fermented Garlic and Ginger

1. Fresh organic garlic and ginger
2. Sea salt
3. Glass jar with lid
4. A fresh and clean cloth or coffee filter

How to Make Fermented Garlic and Ginger

Phase 1 – Preparation:

1. Cleaning: Begin by thoroughly cleaning a glass jar with hot water and soap and then sterilize the jar. Rinse well and dry.
2. Peeling Garlic and Ginger: Peel your fresh organic garlic and ginger. Remember, the number of garlic cloves or portion of ginger you use will depend on the size of your jar and your personal consumption preference.

Phase 2 – Fermentation:

1. Layering: Place the peeled garlic cloves and chopped or grated ginger into the jar, layering them one after the other.
2. Salting: Add sea salt into the jar. The general rule of thumb for the salt quantity is 1-2% of the weight of the contents in the jar.
3. Sealing and Waiting: Cover the jar with a cloth or coffee filter and secure with a rubber band. This allows gases to escape while keeping contaminants out. Store the jar at room temperature, out of direct sunlight.

Fermentation time will vary depending on the temperature and amount of salt used. A good benchmark to follow is 2-4 weeks. Inspect daily to ensure no mold forms. If any mold or unusual smell appears, discard the contents and start again.

Once the fermenting process is complete, replace the cloth with the jar lid and store it in your refrigerator. The fermented garlic and ginger mixture will last for up to a year if properly stored.

How Long Does Fermented Garlic Last?

When properly made and stored in a steril jar, your fermented garlic should maintain its quality and safety for up to a year. Remember, always use clean utensils when making or handling your fermented garlic to prevent cross-contamination.

If you notice any changes in taste, color, or smell, or if there’s evidence of mold, it’s best to dispose of the batch.

Is Fermented Garlic the Same as Black Garlic?

The short answer is no, they are not the same, though they share some similarities. Both black and fermented garlic have their own unique nutritional profiles. They offer different health benefits due to their different preparation techniques.

Fermented garlic is a type of pickled garlic which is produced through the action of microorganisms on raw garlic. On the other hand, black garlic is crafted through a meticulous slow-aging process, not fermentation.

Fermented garlic has probiotic properties and can help support healthy digestion and immune function. Meanwhile, black garlic is known for its high antioxidant content and potential heart health benefits.

Potential Risks of Fermented Garlic

Although fermented garlic has many potential health benefits, it’s important to consume it in moderation and consider the following potential risks. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new dietary regimen.

1. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to garlic or its compounds, and consuming fermented garlic could trigger reactions. Common symptoms include skin rashes, breathing difficulties, or swelling.

2. Indigestion: Despite its health benefits, fermented garlic can cause digestive discomfort in some people. This can result in symptoms such as bloating, gas, or even heartburn.

3. Blood Thinning: Garlic is known to have anticoagulant properties, which means it can slow down blood clotting. If you’re taking blood thinners or have a surgery planned, consuming fermented garlic could potentially increase bleeding risks.

4. Low Blood Pressure: Fermented garlic may lower blood pressure. While this can be beneficial for people with high blood pressure, it could pose risks for those with already low blood pressure.

5. Interaction with Medications: Fermented garlic can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, insulin, and drugs used for HIV/AIDS. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming fermented garlic if you’re on these medications.

6. Bad Breath and Body Odor: While not a health risk, one of the less pleasant side effects of consuming garlic, including the fermented variety, is bad breath and body odor.

7. Potential Botulism Risk: If home fermentation is not done correctly, there’s a risk of botulism, a serious foodborne illness. It’s crucial to follow safe fermentation practices or buy commercially prepared fermented garlic.

You might also enjoy learning how to make your own granulated garlic.

Final Summary

Garlic in general has been used as a natural remedy for all sorts of ailments for a long time. In recent years, it’s made a comeback in the form of fermented garlic as a healthy-living-trend. As you can see, making your own fermented garlic is easy and the health benefits are quite impressive.

Just be sure to consume in moderation and consult your healthcare provider before implementing any daily regimens.

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Sources:

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402177/
• https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/24/5238
• https://www.drberg.com/blog/amazing-benefits-of-garlic-through-the-winter
• https://getvital.net/fermented-garlics-health-boosting-benefits/
• https://thewell.northwell.edu/healthy-living-fitness/fermented-garlic-honey-remedy
• https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/nutrition/allicin-garlics-secret-weapon/