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Japanese Cold Home Remedies

Common Cold Home Remedies in Japan

By , About.com Guide

Shogayu

Shogayu

Photo (c) Setsuko Yoshizuka
The most comforting cold remedy for people in western countries might be a bowl of chicken soup. What are common cold home remedies in Japan?

Negi (green onion) and ginger are said to be excellent home remedies for the early stages of a cold. Basically, food and liquids which keep our bodies warm are good. Here are some Japanese home remedies for cold.

1. Tamagozake (egg and sake)

Tamago-zake contains Japanese sake, so it keeps the body warm. It's said that drinking tamago-zake before going to bed helps people in the early stage of a cold. It's the most common Japanese cold remedy for adults.

2. O-kayu (rice porridge)

O-kayu is the most common "sick food" in Japan. O-kayu is easy to digest and is easy to eat. Add various ingredients, such as vegetables, egg, and meat, depending on your appetite.

3. Shoga-yu (hot ginger drink)

Mix 2 tsp of grated ginger and 2 tsp of sugar in a cup, and pour 2/3 cup of hot water in the cup. Use fresh ginger root to make shogayu.

4. Negi-miso-yu (hot green onion drink)

Put 2 tsp of miso and 1 Tbsp chopped green onion in a soup cup, and pour 2/3 cup of boiled water in the cup. It's hot, so let it cool for a bit.

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