Garlic-based Homemade Balm

Garlic is a food widely used in the preparation of different dishes around the world. However, it has also been used outside the culinary realm, as a natural remedy.

It is considered that thanks to its allicin content, it could help counteract infections caused by bacteria and fungi. There have been several investigations in this regard and, at the moment, it is not possible to say that allicin can cure a disease. So far, we can only talk about potential benefits in specific cases.

How is garlic used in the home?

Some people use crushed garlic directly on the wound. Although it is a fairly famous natural remedy, keep in mind that not only may it not work to heal the wound, but it could even make it worse. Also common is the belief that garlic helps generate beneficial bacterial flora and counteracts the effect of pills and lozenges on the stomach. However, neither the use of garlic on wounds nor as a bacterial flora enhancer has been scientifically proven.

For infections caused by fungi, athlete’s foot for example, it is common to use garlic paste as a cream and cover the feet with socks, although it is recommended that these garments are exclusive for the treatment and we are also willing to throw them away when finished. There is also no scientific evidence for this remedy, so if you suffer from athlete’s foot it is best to consult your doctor.

There is also talk of another of its benefits: rubbing it on the chest to relieve cold symptoms, and rubbing it in the nostrils can relieve sinusitis and rhinitis. However, there is also no scientific evidence to support these facts and it is best that you go to the doctor if you suffer from sinusitis, rhinitis or even a simple cold.

Garlic Balm Recipe

To make this multipurpose pasta you just need to remember the 3 × 3 rule. Remember that, although it can work as a home remedy, this paste does not replace any medical treatment and it is best to go to the doctor if something happens to you.

Three Ingredients:

• Virgin coconut oil.
• Extra virgin olive oil.
• Fresh garlic

To make this preparation you will need three tablespoons full of each.

Procedure to follow

• Place the coconut oil to heat over low heat.
• Add the olive oil and mix evenly.
• When it is hot and homogeneous, add the minced garlic, sauté it and remove from the heat.
• Put the preparation in the blender or grind it with a mortar or coffee grinder.
• Strain the preparation and pour the result into a jar.
• Ready, now you have your own antibiotic and pain reliever ointment! Store it in the refrigerator and don’t forget that the mixture only keeps for two weeks.

Clarification

When the preparation is freshly made it has a white color similar to milk, but little by little it turns into a smooth and thick paste. After several hours of refrigeration, you will find that its density has increased, becoming an easy to spread balm.

Despite the coconut oil, the smell of garlic will prevail, so try to use it only at home, as this smell will also permeate your clothes. So you should choose clothes specifically for the treatment and be careful not to mix them with others when washing them.

It is extremely easy to prepare this homemade balm, but remember, this remedy is not a substitute for any medical treatment nor is it capable of curing any disease.