Introduction: Grandmother's Cold Remedy - Green Onion Root Tea

"Got a cold? Boil some green onion roots and drink it!" This was the advice Korean grandmothers have given for generations. Tea made from the white root portion of green onions (scallions) has been a time-tested cold remedy in Korea for centuries. Modern science is now confirming that this traditional wisdom actually works.

Green onions, especially their root portion, are concentrated with powerful antibacterial and antiviral compounds, including allicin. When you feel the early signs of a cold - that initial chill and runny nose - a warm cup of green onion root tea can help relieve symptoms and speed recovery. Today, we'll explore the benefits of green onion roots and various ways to use them.

1. Key Benefits of Green Onion Root

1.1 Cold Symptom Relief

Here's why green onion root tea is effective for colds:

  • Promotes sweating: Warms the body and induces perspiration, helping to expel early-stage cold symptoms.
  • Fever reduction: Helps lower body temperature through natural perspiration.
  • Relieves nasal congestion: The pungent aroma stimulates nasal membranes and eases breathing.
  • Soothes sore throat: Anti-inflammatory compounds calm throat inflammation and pain.

1.2 Antibacterial and Antiviral Effects

  • Allicin's antibacterial power: Similar to garlic, allicin inhibits the growth of bacteria and viruses.
  • Natural antibiotic: Provides natural defense against cold-causing pathogens.
  • Immune system boost: Promotes white blood cell activity to strengthen immunity.

1.3 Improved Blood Circulation

  • Vasodilation: Promotes blood circulation, helpful for those with cold hands and feet.
  • Warming effect: As a warming food, it helps improve cold constitution.
  • Metabolism boost: Aids in eliminating waste from the body.

1.4 Digestive Support

  • Promotes digestion: Activates intestinal peristalsis.
  • Appetite stimulation: The aroma stimulates saliva production and appetite.
  • Gut health: Acts as a prebiotic to promote beneficial bacteria growth.

2. Scientific Compounds in Green Onion Root

Key Active Compounds in Green Onion Root

  • Allicin: The main component responsible for the pungent taste and smell. Powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant effects.
  • Allyl Sulfide: Promotes blood circulation and lowers cholesterol.
  • Quercetin: A powerful antioxidant that suppresses inflammation and relieves allergies.
  • Vitamin C: Essential for immune function and fatigue recovery.
  • Calcium, Potassium: Supports bone health and blood pressure regulation.

3. How to Make Green Onion Root Tea

Basic Green Onion Root Tea

Ingredients: 3-4 green onion roots (thoroughly cleaned), 500ml water

  1. Prepare the roots: Cut off the white root portion of green onions and wash thoroughly to remove any dirt.
  2. Boil: Add water and roots to a pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Drink: Strain out the roots and drink warm.

※ Add honey or jujubes to taste if desired.

Green Onion Root Ginger Tea (Especially Effective for Early Colds)

Ingredients: 3 green onion roots, 1 piece ginger (sliced thin), 500ml water, 1 tbsp honey

  1. Clean the green onion roots and ginger thoroughly.
  2. Add water, roots, and ginger to a pot and simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. Turn off heat, let cool slightly, then add honey and drink.

※ The perspiration-inducing effect of ginger synergizes with the antibacterial effect of green onion roots.

Green Onion Root Jujube Tea (For Weak Constitution)

Ingredients: 3 green onion roots, 5 jujubes (red dates), 600ml water

  1. Wash the jujubes and make small cuts in them.
  2. Add all ingredients to a pot and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
  3. Drink warm, then immediately get under covers and rest.

※ Jujubes replenish energy while green onion roots fight the cold.

4. Green Onion Root Home Remedies

Intensive Early Cold Treatment

  1. Drink green onion root tea: Have a warm cup of the tea.
  2. Foot soak: Soak your feet in hot water to induce sweating.
  3. Rest under covers: After sweating well, get warm sleep - you'll feel refreshed the next day.

Various Ways to Use Green Onion Roots

  • Miso soup with roots: Add green onion roots to miso soup for both flavor and health benefits.
  • Chicken soup with roots: Adding roots to chicken soup doubles the restorative effect.
  • Root compress: Wrap warmed roots in cloth and place near the nose to relieve congestion.
  • White part of green onion: The white part of the green onion (not just the roots) has similar benefits.

5. How to Store Green Onion Roots

Smart Storage Tips

  • Freezer storage: Wash and dry thoroughly, seal, and store in the freezer. Use directly when needed.
  • Dried storage: Sun-dry the roots for long-term storage; can be steeped as tea.
  • Usage tip: Don't throw away the roots when using green onions - save them for later use.

6. Precautions

Precautions When Consuming Green Onion Root

  • Avoid overconsumption: Green onions are stimulating; limit to 2-3 cups per day.
  • Digestive sensitivity: Those with weak stomachs, gastritis, or ulcers should start with small amounts.
  • Eye conditions: In traditional medicine, green onions are said to affect the eyes; use caution if you have red or painful eyes.
  • Medication: Consult your doctor if taking blood thinners.
  • Allergies: Avoid if you have a green onion allergy.

When to See a Doctor

  • High fever (over 38.5°C/101°F) lasting more than 3 days
  • Cough persisting for more than 2 weeks
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Symptoms progressively worsening

Home remedies are effective for initial response to mild symptoms, but seek professional medical care for severe symptoms.

Conclusion

Green onion root tea is a proven traditional remedy that our ancestors have used for centuries to treat early cold symptoms. Rich in powerful antibacterial compounds including allicin, it provides real relief for cold symptoms. During seasonal changes or at the first sign of a cold, try a warm cup of green onion root tea to protect your health. Those green onion roots you used to throw away will now become a valuable health resource.