Garlic Milk (Lahsun Doodh)
Ingredients (Serves 2)
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10–12 garlic cloves (peeled and lightly crushed)
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2 cups (500 ml) milk (whole or low-fat)
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½ cup (125 ml) water
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1 tsp honey or jaggery (optional, for taste)
Instructions
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Boil the mixture:
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In a saucepan, add milk, water, and crushed garlic cloves.
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Bring to a boil on medium heat.
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Simmer:
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Lower the heat and simmer until the liquid reduces to about half (around 15–20 minutes).
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Stir occasionally to prevent milk from burning.
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Strain:
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Once reduced, strain the milk to remove garlic pieces (optional — you can also eat them if you prefer).
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Serve:
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Pour into a cup and drink warm.
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You can add a small spoon of honey for taste and additional soothing effect.
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Health Benefits
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Boosts Immunity – Garlic has allicin, which helps fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
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Improves Heart Health – May reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and improve blood circulation.
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Aids Digestion – Helps reduce gas and bloating.
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Relieves Cold & Cough – A warm drink that soothes the throat and clears congestion.
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Anti-inflammatory & Detoxifying – Garlic’s antioxidants help detoxify the liver and reduce inflammation.
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Improves Sleep – Milk’s tryptophan and garlic’s relaxing properties promote better sleep.
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Helps with Joint Pain – May reduce arthritic inflammation.
Notes & Tips
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Taste: The flavor can be strong; adding honey or cardamom can make it more palatable.
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Lactose intolerance: Use lactose-free milk or plant-based milk (like almond milk).
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Frequency: Drink ½ to 1 cup once a day, preferably at night.
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Storage: Best consumed fresh; avoid storing overnight.
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Precaution: If you have stomach ulcers, acid reflux, or are on blood-thinning medication, consult a doctor first.
Nutritional Info (Approx. per 1 cup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Calcium | 250 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Allicin (active compound) | trace amount |
FAQs
Q1. Can I drink it daily?
Yes, but ½ cup daily is sufficient. Overuse can irritate the stomach.
Q2. When should I drink garlic milk?
At night before bed — it helps your body repair and boosts immunity overnight.
Q3. Can I eat the boiled garlic too?
Yes! It becomes soft and mildly flavored after boiling and adds extra health benefits.
Q4. Does it help with cough or asthma?
Traditionally, yes — warm garlic milk can help open airways and reduce mucus.
Q5. Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, almond or oat milk works well, though the benefits might differ slightly.