by Mercy Benelson Ikpe | Contributor, Africa – 

Raw garlic is very good for you, but not everyone can handle its heat. While it has health benefits beyond eating it raw, it has a unique taste and amazing properties.

Health benefits of garlic are:

Fight the common cold

Lower blood pressure decreases the risk of clogged arteries and heart attack.

It improves bone health because it contains zinc, manganese, vitamins B6 and C, and enzymes that support bone formation, connective tissue formation, and bone metabolism.

But fermented garlic will temper its heat quite a bit while also giving you some healthy bacteria (Probiotics).

It adds tons of health-promoting gut bacteria to keep your gut clean and prevent digestive issues.

Fermented garlic can be added to salads, soups, and stir-fries, or eaten raw.

Photo credit: Instructables

Recipe for fermented garlic

5-6 heads of garlic

Add apple cider vinegar

Add flavor (optional)

Directions- Peel garlic and put it in a clean jar.

Pour water and salt or apple cider vinegar over the garlic, then cover.

Close and leave for 2-3 weeks.

The longer the better, and the more potent the concoction you get. Some leave it for years, but please be sure to open the lids to release pressure in the jar.

Please note that what I write here is not medical advice, and that everybody has a different body composition. What is good for person A may not be for person B.

Benelson Ikpe is the founder and CEO of Pinnacle Event and Planners (PEP), Nigeria. PEP metamorphosed from Pinnacle Kitchen. From catering and event decorations to DJ services and photography, she wrote this piece for Heartmenders Magazine. Contact Mercy Benelson Ikpe at merscoa@yahoo.com.   

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