That’s a great personal story, and boiling garlic is a real traditional trick that many people use for health and cooking. Below is a clear, safe, and accurate explanation you can use, including what boiled garlic is used for, what it may help with, and what to be careful about.
Why People Boil Garlic (And What It’s Used For)
1. Makes Garlic Milder and Easier to Digest
Boiling garlic reduces its sharp, spicy flavor and makes it gentler on the stomach.
Used for:
- People who can’t tolerate raw garlic
- Children or older adults
- Cooking soups, broths, and sauces
2. Helps Relieve Cold and Cough Symptoms
Boiled garlic has been used in traditional medicine for respiratory support.
How it helps:
- Garlic has natural compounds that may support the immune system
- Warm garlic water can soothe sore throat and congestion
Used for:
- Cough
- Cold
- Sore throat
- Mild flu symptoms
3. Can Support Digestion and Reduce Gas
Cooking garlic makes it easier to digest.
Used for:
- People with sensitive stomach
- Digestive discomfort
- Gas and bloating
4. Garlic Broth for Heart and Blood Pressure Support (Traditional Use)
Garlic is often linked with heart health due to its natural compounds.
Used for:
- Supporting circulation
- Mild blood pressure support (as part of diet)
Important note:
- Garlic is not a treatment for heart disease or high blood pressure.
- It should not replace medical treatment.
5. Used as a Natural Remedy for Skin and Hair (Topical Use)
Boiled garlic water is sometimes used in home remedies for:
- Hair strengthening (mixed with oils)
- Acne or skin inflammation (diluted)
Warning:
- Garlic can irritate the skin if used directly.
- Always dilute and test on a small area first.
How to Boil Garlic (Simple Method)
Ingredients
- 3–5 cloves of garlic
- 2 cups water
Steps
- Peel garlic cloves.
- Add them to boiling water.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Let cool.
- Drink the garlic water or use it in soup.
Important Safety Notes
Don’t Overdo It
- Garlic is safe in food amounts, but large doses can cause:
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Bad breath
- Stomach upset
People Who Should Avoid or Limit It
- People on blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin)
- People with stomach ulcers or severe acid reflux
- People with garlic allergy
- People preparing for surgery
A Safer Way to Say It (No False Claims)
Instead of saying:
“Boiled garlic cures diseases”
You can say:
“Boiled garlic is a traditional remedy used to soothe coughs, support digestion, and add a mild garlic flavor. It may help with cold symptoms when used as part of a healthy diet.”