🌿 Amish Herbal Immunity Tonic (“Amish Penicillin”)

🌿 Amish Herbal Immunity Tonic (“Amish Penicillin”)

A traditional, natural Amish immunity tonic—often nicknamed ‘Amish Penicillin’ in folk culture—this kitchen-based herbal remedy is commonly used for general immune support, especially during the cold season.A traditional homemade remedy for supporting the body during cold and flu season

🩺 What It’s Traditionally Used For

This folk remedy is commonly used for:

  • Supporting the immune system during seasonal colds
  • Soothing scratchy throats
  • Helping with congestion
  • Providing natural antimicrobial and antioxidant-rich ingredients

It is not a treatment for infections that require antibiotics and should not be used as a substitute for medical care.

🧾 Ingredients & Measurements

This is a popular traditional blend:

  • 1/4 cup raw honey
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2–3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon raw apple cider vinegar

🍯 How to Make It

  1. In a small bowl or jar, mix the lemon juice and raw honey until combined.
  2. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and cayenne pepper.
  3. (Optional) Add apple cider vinegar for extra tang and preservation.
  4. Stir well, seal in a jar, and let sit for at least 2–4 hours to allow flavors and beneficial compounds to meld.
  5. Shake gently before each use.

 Benefits (Traditional/Folk Uses)

These benefits come from the natural properties of the ingredients:

Garlic

  • Contains allicin, a natural antimicrobial compound
  • Historically used for immune support

Ginger

  • Helps with nausea, digestion, and inflammation

Lemon

  • Provides vitamin C and antioxidants

Honey

  • Soothes the throat
  • Has natural antimicrobial activity

Cayenne

  • Helps open sinuses
  • Stimulates circulation

Again, these are supportive, not curative like antibiotics.

🥄 Usage Tips

  • Adults typically take 1 teaspoon at the first sign of a cold and repeat 2–3 times daily as needed.
  • Can be added to warm (not hot) water to make a soothing drink.
  • If the garlic flavor is strong, mix with a bit more lemon or honey.

Avoid giving honey to children under 1 year old.

🧊 Shelf / Fridge Life

Because it contains fresh garlic and fresh ginger:

  • Refrigerator: up to 5–7 days
  • Room temperature: not recommended

Storing in a glass jar is ideal.


 

Back to blog