The secret behind the healthy diets and longevity of the Japanese has been revealed. In addition to engaging in regular physical activities like walking, cycling, and exercising, they regularly consume a particular food found in every kitchen. So, what is that food?
Garlic is a plant species belonging to the Allium family. It generally has a sharp and distinctive smell and contains abundant flavorful and healthy nutrients. Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which is associated with numerous health benefits. Allicin possesses antibacterial and antiviral properties that can be used to fight infections and strengthen the immune system. Moreover, garlic contains other nutrients that provide a range of benefits, including heart health, blood sugar control, bone health, antioxidant defense, and cancer prevention.
Garlic is commonly used for cooking and seasoning. In some cultures, it is consumed directly or found in other forms, such as garlic extract, supplements, and health products. However, today we will introduce you to a different way of using garlic. Yes, you guessed it right—we’re talking about garlic tea. Historians believe that throughout history, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, Japanese, and Native Americans have used garlic for dietary and medicinal purposes. Drinking a glass of garlic tea in the morning is known to work wonders for your body.
The Japanese Secret to Defying Age! Drink a Glass a Day and Witness the Miracle!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup honey
Instructions:
- Fill a pot with three cups of water. Add peeled and halved garlic cloves. Bring the water to a boil.
- Remove from heat and add lemon juice and honey. Remove the garlic and serve hot, or store it for reheating later.
There are variations of the garlic tea recipe. For example, some people add ginger to the tea for more flavor and additional health benefits. Ginger also reduces the strong garlic smell.
Health Benefits of Garlic Tea
There are hardly any diseases in which garlic is not considered therapeutic or soothing. While not all the benefits of garlic are scientifically proven, some are backed by scientific evidence.
- Improves immune health: Garlic contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help make the immune system stronger and more effective.
- Prevents and treats cancer: Garlic contains compounds that inhibit cancer cell growth and aid in the fight against cancer.
- Promotes weight loss: Garlic contributes to weight loss by accelerating metabolism and promoting fat burning.
- Increases energy: Garlic contains compounds that enhance energy production and help cells function better.
- Fights infections: Garlic contains allicin, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties, providing protection against infections.
- Lowers cholesterol: Garlic contains compounds that reduce bad cholesterol levels in the blood and increase good cholesterol levels.
- Lowers blood pressure: Garlic contains compounds that dilate blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.
- Disinfects wounds: Garlic has antimicrobial properties that cleanse wounds and speed up the healing process.
- Treats vaginal yeast infections: Garlic can be used as a natural antifungal to combat and alleviate yeast infections.
- Gets rid of mouth ulcers: Garlic helps reduce inflammation in the mouth, aiding the healing of mouth ulcers.
- Treats stomach cancers: Garlic contains compounds that inhibit the growth of stomach cancer cells and assist in the fight against cancer.
- Treats atherosclerosis (arterial stiffness): Garlic contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that help prevent arterial stiffness.
- Repels mosquitoes: Garlic can be used as a natural insect repellent to keep mosquitoes at bay.
How to Consume Garlic Tea?
Drinking garlic tea daily will help you maximize its health benefits. Having a glass of garlic tea on an empty stomach in the morning will boost your energy levels throughout the day and contribute to your body’s detoxification process. The taste and smell of garlic tea might be unpleasant for some people. In that case, you can add lemon, honey, or ginger to the tea to alleviate the taste and smell.
Side Effects and Precautions of Garlic Tea
Although garlic tea is generally safe, it can have side effects for some people. Specifically, those with a garlic allergy or those taking certain medications that may interact with garlic should exercise caution. Additionally, since garlic has blood-thinning properties, care should be taken when consuming garlic tea before and after surgery.
Those who want to experience the health benefits of garlic tea should start by consuming it in moderation and, if possible, consulting a health professional. Initially, drinking a glass of garlic tea a day will be enough to experience its health benefits.
In conclusion, the secret to the Japanese’s healthy and long-lived lifestyle lies in integrating garlic tea into their daily lives. By adding a glass of garlic tea to your routine, you too can enjoy the numerous health benefits it offers and join the ranks of those who live a healthier, more youthful life.
