Key Highlights: 

• Garlic tea is a nutritious, low-calorie beverage with proposed medicinal properties. 
• The active compounds in garlic tea may help strengthen immunity, support heart health, and offer antioxidant effects. 
• Garlic tea is said to potentially increase longevity and enhance athletic performance. 
• Drinking garlic tea may help detoxify heavy metals from the body and maintain bone health. 
• Side effects may include allergies, gastrointestinal issues, and interactions with medications. 

Introduction 

Garlic tea is a blend of garlic, lemon, and honey. This mix is said to have several potential benefits for health. In this article, we’re going in-depth about garlic tea. We’ll cover its nutritional information, how to make it, and how it may support your health. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.  

What is Garlic Tea? 

Garlic tea is a healthy beverage made from a mix of garlic, lemon, and honey. It offers potential health benefits and has grown popular because of them. 

History 

Garlic’s origin (Allium sativum) traces back to Central Asia. It was first grown there about 5,000 years ago. Since then, many cultures, including Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, and more, have used it. 

Nutritional Profile of Garlic Tea 

The health benefits of garlic tea are due to its nutritional profile. Which is described below.  

• Components 

Garlic cloves are the star of the tea. They are packed with vitamins and minerals. The cloves also have bioactive molecules, like allicin, which gives garlic tea its flavour. 

Boiling garlic for tea may lower some nutrient levels. But key beneficial compounds, like allicin, remain which are said to improve your health. 

Research-Based Health Benefits of Garlic Tea 

Garlic tea is proposed to offer power-packed health benefits which are described below.  

1. Powerful Medicinal Properties 

Garlic tea holds beneficial properties thanks to its bioactive compounds. 

• Allicin and Other Bioactive Compounds 

Compounds like allicin, diallyl disulfide, and s-allyl cysteine in garlic offer health benefits. These pacify inflammation, stop microbes, and aid the immune system. 

2. Low-Calorie Nutrient Powerhouse 

Garlic tea is low in calories but high in nutrients which are described below.  

• Vitamins and Minerals 

Garlic tea may have fewer vitamins and minerals than raw garlic. But it still gives you essential ones like B6 and C vitamins, manganese, and selenium. 

• Macronutrient Profile 

Another benefit of garlic tea is it’s ultra-low calories. A perfect choice if you want to enjoy a healthy drink without worrying about calories. 

3. Immunity Booster 

Garlic tea may help support immunity in the body in the following ways. 

• Risk Reduction of Common Cold  

Garlic’s proposed antiviral properties could ward off common cold viruses or lessen symptoms. 

• Antimicrobial Properties 

The bioactive compounds in garlic may stop bacteria, fungi, and other parasites from growing. 

4. Supports Heart Health 

Garlic tea isn’t just tasty. It’s also said to be heart-friendly. 

• Blood Pressure Regulation 

Some research points out that garlic may efficiently regulate blood pressure in people with hypertension. 

• Cholesterol Level Improvement 

Studies reveal that garlic may reduce total and bad cholesterol levels, thus reducing your risk of heart issues. 

5. Antioxidant Effects 

 A cup of garlic tea a day may protect your body from stress caused by oxidation.  

• Neuroprotection 

The antioxidants in garlic likely protect against cognitive decline tied to cell damage. 

• Risk Reduction of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia 

Several studies suggest a link between garlic’s antioxidant power and a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. 

6. Potentially Increases Longevity 

Research suggests that garlic tea may help promote a longer lifespan.  

• Anti-Aging Properties 

The antioxidants in garlic tea may help fight cellular damage, which slows aging. 

• Reduction of Risk Factors 

Chronic diseases might result in a shorter lifespan. However, the benefits of garlic tea may lower these risks and thus potentially add more years to your life. 

7. Enhanced Athletic Performance 

For those chasing fitness goals, garlic tea might give an extra push. 

• Exercise Endurance 

While limited, some animal studies point to garlic improving exercise stamina due to its antioxidative mechanism against exercise-related oxidative stress. We need studies done in humans to corroborate the same.  

• Muscle Recovery 

Garlic’s antioxidative properties may speed up muscle recovery and reduce damage after exercising. 

8. Detoxification of Heavy Metals 

Garlic is also proposed to help to protect against harmful metals. 

• Protective Effects Against Heavy Metal Toxicity 

The high sulfur compounds in garlic shield against damage caused by heavy metals. Allicin is also said to curtail lead buildup in the blood and the body’s vital oragns. 

• Chelating Properties 

Garlic is also proposed to act as a natural chelator. In other words, garlic helps clear harmful metals and toxins from the body. This contributes to overall health. 

9. Supports Bone Health 

Garlic tea may support bone health in the following ways.  

• Alleviation of Bone Loss 

Some research suggests that garlic reduces oxidative stress associated with conditions like osteoporosis. 

10. Potential Benefits for Postmenopausal Women 

Older women might benefit from garlic intake. It is said to help maintain bone density and lower the risk of fractures. 

11. Culinary Versatility and Flavour Enhancer 

A great feature of garlic tea is it pairs well with various foods, making it an exciting addition to your kitchen. 

• Cooking Methods 

You can enjoy garlic tea on its own or combine it with other flavours. For instance, you can add it to soups and sauces. 

• Accompaniment Choices 

Mixing ginger or other sweeteners like honey allows numerous taste options to suit your taste buds. 

Although studies have revealed health-boosting properties of ginger tea, further long-term human studies are needed to confirm these benefits  

Side Effects of Garlic Tea 

As good as it is, garlic tea may have some side effects you should be aware of. 

Allergies 

If you suspect you’re allergic to garlic, talk to a healthcare professional. You should do this if you experience hives, itching, or trouble breathing after drinking the tea. 

Gastrointestinal Issues 

Garlic might sometimes cause digestive issues like heartburn, bloating, and gas in some. 

Interactions with Medications 

Garlic can interact with certain drugs, such as blood thinners. If you’re worried about these potential interactions, consult your healthcare provider before drinking garlic tea. 

Garlic Tea Preparation and Recipes 

You can make garlic tea at home to suit your taste. 

DIY Garlic Tea Recipe 

• Chop 3-4 garlic cloves. 
• Prepare half a cup, each of lemon juice and honey. 

To Make the Tea: 

• Bring the water and garlic to boil. 
• Take it off the flame, then add the lemon juice and honey. 
• Take out the garlic cloves and enjoy the tea hot. 

Popular Combinations 

Garlic tea goes well with several other flavours. 

• Garlic Tea with Ginger 

 You can try adding freshly cut or grated ginger to it. 

• Garlic Tea with Honey and Lemon 

Honey and lemon naturally sweeten the tea and balance out the strong taste of garlic. 

Conclusion 

Drinking garlic tea may greatly benefit your health in many ways. From boosting your immune system to supporting your heart, aiding detoxification, and promoting bone health, the benefits of garlic tea are numerous. It’s important also to be aware of possible side effects and consider individual needs. However, the overall impact of garlic tea on a balanced and health-conscious lifestyle is undeniable. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

References: 

1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Garlic: a review of potential therapeutic effects – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103721 

2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Potential Health Benefit of Garlic Based on Human Intervention Studies: A Brief Overview – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402177 

3. PubMed. Raw garlic consumption is inversely associated with prehypertension in a large-scale adult population [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31551568 

4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Garlic intake and the risk of colorectal cancer – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6946456 

5. PubMed. Effects of garlic consumption on plasma and erythrocyte antioxidant parameters in elderly subjects [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18463427 

6. PubMed. Fungal infection control by garlic extracts (Allium sativum L.) and modulation of peritoneal macrophages activity in murine model of sporotrichosis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28492800 

7. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Effect on Blood Pressure of Daily Lemon Ingestion and Walking – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4003767 

8. PubMed. Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28539734 

9. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Revealing the Therapeutic Uses of Garlic (Allium sativum) and Its Potential for Drug Discovery – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8739926 

10. PubMed. Historical perspective on the use of garlic [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11238795 

11. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Allicin Bioavailability and Bioequivalence from Garlic Supplements and Garlic Foods – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073756 

12. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Biological Functions of Diallyl Disulfide, a Garlic-Derived Natural Organic Sulfur Compound – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8570849 

13. ScienceDirect. Your Browser is out of date. [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0014299916307658 

14. ScienceDirect. Your Browser is out of date. [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316623005266 

15. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Antiviral potential of garlic (Allium sativum) and its organosulfur compounds: A systematic update of pre-clinical and clinical data – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7434784 

16. World Health Organization (WHO). Cardiovascular diseases [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases 

17. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Garlic lowers blood pressure in hypertensive subjects, improves arterial stiffness and gut microbiota: A review and meta-analysis – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6966103 

18. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Potential benefits of garlic and other dietary supplements for the management of hypertension – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6966105 

19. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Anti-hyperlipidemia of garlic by reducing the level of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6392629 

20. ScienceDirect. Your Browser is out of date. [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316623005199 

21. ScienceDirect. Your Browser is out of date. [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229919319685 

22. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Therapeutic Potential of Allicin and Aged Garlic Extract in Alzheimer’s Disease – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9266652 

23. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Benefits of aged garlic extract on Alzheimer’s disease: Possible mechanisms of action – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6966106 

24. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Garlic Consumption and All-Cause Mortality among Chinese Oldest-Old Individuals: A Population-Based Cohort Study – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6683033 

25. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Infections in the Elderly Critically-Ill Patients – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6593279 

26. PubMed. Effects of Low Temperature-Aged Garlic on Exercise Performance and Fatigue in Mice [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31339799 

27. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Garlic supplementation attenuates cycling exercise-induced oxidative inflammation but fails to improve time trial performance in healthy adults – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10184592 

28. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The effects of acute garlic supplementation on the fibrinolytic and vasoreactive response to exercise – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4446086 

29. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The effect of consumption of garlic tablet on proteins oxidation biomarkers in postmenopausal osteoporotic women: A randomized clinical trial – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5783112 

30. ScienceDirect. Your Browser is out of date. [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711318301557 

31. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Bioactive Compounds and Biological Functions of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6678835 

If you’re allergic to garlic or if certain health issues or drugs don’t mix well with garlic, avoid this tea. Always consult a doctor before adding new items to your diet.