ADVERTISEMENT
min C, which is essential for supporting immune function and fighting off infections.
How to Make Onion Tea: A Simple Home Remedy
Onion tea is incredibly easy to make with just a few basic ingredients. Here’s how you can prepare it to help soothe your cough:
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion (yellow or red, depending on your preference)
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey (to taste; honey adds sweetness and additional soothing properties)
- 2-3 cups of water
- Optional: a slice of lemon or a small piece of ginger for added flavor and benefits
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onion:
- Peel the onion and cut it into thin slices or chunks. There’s no need to finely chop it because it will be boiled and strained later.
- Boil the Water:
- In a small saucepan, add 2 to 3 cups of water and bring it to a boil. You can adjust the amount of water based on how strong you want your tea to be.
- Add the Onion:
- Once the water is boiling, add the sliced onion to the pan. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the onion’s beneficial compounds to infuse the water and release its medicinal properties.
- Optional Add-ins:
- If desired, you can add a slice of ginger or a squeeze of lemon juice to the tea. Both of these ingredients have their own benefits, such as helping with digestion and adding extra vitamin C to boost your immune system.
- Strain and Sweeten:
- After the tea has simmered, strain out the onion slices. You can discard the onion pieces or use them in cooking if you like.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the tea while it’s still warm. Honey adds natural sweetness, helps soothe the throat, and has additional antimicrobial benefits.
- Drink and Relax:
- Sip the tea slowly while it’s warm, and allow it to coat your throat. You can drink it a few times a day, especially when your cough is particularly bad.
Additional Tips for Using Onion Tea
- Drink Regularly: For the best results, drink onion tea two to three times a day. The sooner you start, the more effective it will be.
- Use Raw Honey: Try to use raw, unprocessed honey, which has additional health benefits compared to regular store-bought honey. Raw honey is rich in antioxidants and has natural antibacterial properties.
- Rest and Hydrate: In addition to drinking onion tea, make sure to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Drinking enough water helps thin mucus and keeps your body hydrated, which is essential for recovery.
- Combine with Other Remedies: If your cough is caused by a cold or flu, you may find it beneficial to combine onion tea with other natural remedies like steam inhalation, saltwater gargles, or herbal teas like peppermint or chamomile.
Why Onion Tea is a Great Alternative to Cough Syrups
Many over-the-counter cough syrups and medications can be loaded with artificial ingredients, chemicals, and sometimes even alcohol. They may provide temporary relief but don’t always address the underlying cause of the cough or have long-term benefits. Onion tea, on the other hand, is a natural, safe, and effective way to treat a cough. Plus, it’s free from harmful side effects and can be made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
The Bottom Line
Onion Tea is a simple, effective, and natural remedy for cough relief. Whether you’re dealing with a dry cough, a mucus-filled chest, or a sore throat, the powerful properties of onions can help soothe your symptoms and support your body’s healing process. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and natural compounds, onion tea can act as a gentle, effective alternative to commercial cough syrups, offering both relief and nourishment for your body.
So the next time a cough strikes, consider turning to the humble onion for help. With this easy-to-make tea, you’ll be on your way to feeling better in no time.