Throughout the ages, grandmothers have passed on their treasure trove of home remedies to ensure the health and well-being of their loved ones. One such revered recipe gaining popularity on the web is the ginger, onion, and garlic tonic. Though there is no concrete evidence to support this specific combination’s ability to help every illness or health problem you might have, each individual ingredient boasts some potential health benefits, but who knows, it might come in handy during cold and flu season. Let’s explore the stories behind this grandma’s tonic and how to prepare it at home.
The Grandma’s Tonic Recipe and Preparation
The Ginger, Onion, and Garlic Tonic is believed to be a potent elixir that can rejuvenate and fortify the body. Passed down through generations, this tonic is said to be an anecdote to various ailments. While scientific evidence may be lacking, many individuals swear by this homemade concoction.
To prepare the Ginger, Onion, Garlic Tonic, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- 1 large ginger root, peeled and grated
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 5-6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of honey (optional for taste)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
- Add the grated ginger, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the boiling water.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the tonic cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, strain the liquid and add honey if desired.
- Store the Ginger, Onion, Garlic Tonic in a clean container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Potential Benefits of the Main Ingredients
Though there is not much evidence to support claims about the combination of these ingredients, there is certainly existing evidence of the power of each individual one. Of course, the thought is that combining these means you simply reap the benefits of all three, all at once. These benefits are:
1. Ginger
Ginger, known for its spicy and pungent flavor, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It contains bioactive compounds called gingerols, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger may aid digestion, alleviate nausea, reduce muscle pain and soreness, and contribute to improved immune function. (1)
Read: Don’t Use Ginger If You Belong To Any Of These 5 Groups Of People
2. Onion
Onions are rich in flavonoids and sulfur-containing compounds that impart them with numerous health benefits. They possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Onions have been associated with promoting cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure, and boosting metabolism. (2)
Read: 8 Ways To Get Rid Of Phlegm And Mucus In Chest And Throat
3. Garlic
Garlic‘s reputation as a medicinal powerhouse dates back thousands of years. It contains a compound called allicin, responsible for its potent medicinal properties. Garlic may help boost the immune system, reduce the risk of heart disease, regulate blood pressure, and exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal effects. (3)
Read: How Long Does Garlic Last?
4. Lemon
Lemons are a natural source of vitamin C and flavonoids. They may reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of obesity. Lemons also contain limonene, an antioxidant compound that is thought to promote heart health by reducing inflammation in blood vessels. (4)
5. Honey
Honey is a natural antibiotic and antibacterial agent, with several studies showing that it may help boost immune function. Honey also contains flavonoids and antioxidant compounds that may protect against heart disease and certain cancers. (5) Honey can also help relive cough and sore throat symptoms.
The Bottom Line
While this ginger, onion, and garlic Tonic recipe may not possess concrete evidence to support its claims of being a panacea, the individual ingredients do offer potential health benefits. Ginger, onion, and garlic have long been regarded for their medicinal properties, making their inclusion in this tonic a promising combination. As with any homemade remedy, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before integrating it into your routine, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are on medication. So, the next time you feel the need for a natural boost, try preparing this Grandma’s Tonic and experience the potential benefits it has to offer.
Keep Reading: How To Make Deliciously Fizzy Elderberry Soda
Sources
- “Effect of Ginger on Inflammatory Diseases.” NCBI. Pura Ballester, et al. November 2022.
- “Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin: New Insights and Perspectives for Human Health.” NCBI. Bahare Salehi, et al. May 2020.
- “Allicin Bioavailability and Bioequivalence from Garlic Supplements and Garlic Foods.” NCBI. Larry D. Lawson and Scott M. Hunsaker. July 2018.
- “6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Lemons.” Healthline. Helen West, RD. April 11, 2023
- “Everything to know about the Health Benefits of Honey.” Healthline. SaVanna Shoemaker, MS, RDN, LD. May 15, 2023