Given my mother’s busy schedule, it was always my grandma who took care of me when I was a kid. Whenever I fell ill and was confined to bed, Grandma was the one by my side.

As a child prone to swollen tonsils, catching a virus meant a quick swelling of the throat and a fever.

During those times, Grandma would unfailingly grab a long green onion, lightly wrap it in a cloth, and secure it around my neck. Even as a child, I vividly remember this comforting ritual.

I call it a Onion scarf ritual.

Does green onion genuinely possess the power to alleviate throat pain?

In traditional Eastern medicine, green onions are thought to dispel colds and warm the body.

Vegetables within the onion family (onions, green onions, leeks, scallions, etc.) contain a compound known as “diallyl disulfide.” This compound is responsible for the characteristic aroma of onions and the tear-inducing effect when onions are cut.

Diallyl disulfide boasts potent antibacterial and sterilizing properties, along with excellent anti-inflammatory characteristics.

Furthermore, a component called “alliin” also contributes antibacterial and antipyretic effects, offering relief during a cold.

Hence, the historical use of green onions as a “seasoning” and their role as a “detoxifier” is grounded in practicality.

By wrapping green onions around the neck, these beneficial components are absorbed through the skin. Not only does this aid in reducing throat inflammation, but the warmth from the wrapped green onion causes Diallyl disulfide and alliin to evaporate. By inhaling, these components to directly exert their effects on the inflamed areas through the nose and throat.

While there is a method of heating the green onion before wrapping, it’s worth noting that heating can compromise components like diallyl disulfide. Thus, from a chemical perspective, using raw green onions seems preferable.

Of course, consuming green onions also offers its benefits.

In my case, I cut the white part of the green onion without cooking it, wrap it in a cloth (Japanese Tenugui particularly, it is similar to cheese cloth), and then secure it around my neck.

For children, consider wrapping it in a charmingly patterned cloth and presenting it as a magical “Hello Kitty scarf that will cure you” type thing to enhance the experience for your kids.

Little more nutritional digging if you would like:

Incidentally, the remarkable effectiveness of diallyl disulfide in antibacterial and sterilizing effects likely stems from its capacity to boost the production of glutathione—the fundamental antioxidant crucial for cellular health. Glutathione binds and detoxifies toxins within cells, shielding them from oxidative stress and serving as an anti-inflammatory agent.

It maybe difficult to find this Japanese Long Green Onion in other countries unless you have a good Japanese glossary store near you. Technically, most type of onion does this magic. Maybe chopping a common yellow onion and wrap in a fabric, tie around your neck would also work. Scallions maybe easier doing so considering its shape.

Subscribe to “Live Your Best”, your go-to source for comprehensive information to guide you on the path to a healthier life. Drawing from my expertise as a certified Health Coach and insights from practices such as Shiatsu, Taichi-Chen, Daoism, and various philosophies, I’ve merged a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to empower you on your wellness journey. Join me as we explore holistic approaches to health and well-being, unlocking the secrets to living your best life.