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Japanese Cold Home Remedies

Common Cold Home Remedies in Japan

By Setsuko Yoshizuka, About.com

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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