Onion wine is a traditional remedy originating from Japan, where it is believed to offer a multitude of health benefits.
This unique concoction has gained popularity across Asia, especially in countries like China, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Now, it is also widely used in Vietnam, and today we will explore the benefits of this remedy and how to make it.
1. Benefits of Onion Wine
According to Cardiologist Dr. Serdrew from Harvard Medical School, consuming half a raw onion or its juice daily can increase HDL levels by 30%, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some studies also suggest that onions can prevent bone loss more effectively than Calcitonin, a drug used to treat osteoporosis.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol) is a type of lipoprotein produced in the liver. HDL is often referred to as “good cholesterol” because it helps to transport excess cholesterol from the blood and tissues back to the liver, thereby reducing cholesterol buildup in the bloodstream and promoting cardiovascular health.
Onions are also rich in selenium and quercetin, which boost the immune system, prevent cancer, and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Additionally, onions contain prostaglandin A, a compound that relaxes blood vessels and reduces blood viscosity, making it effective in lowering blood pressure, increasing coronary blood flow, and preventing blood clots.
Red wine, the primary ingredient in onion wine, contains phytochemicals that increase HDL levels and help protect the lining of coronary arteries. Notably, researchers at Johns Hopkins Medical Center believe that red wine can also help prevent strokes.
Thus, the combination of onions and red wine creates a potent remedy that can help prevent and manage various health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, age-related vision problems, frequent urination, insomnia, blurry vision, abdominal bloating, constipation, and joint pain.
2. How to Make Onion Wine
Ingredients and Tools:
- 500ml of red wine
- 3 large red or purple onions
- A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
- A strainer or cheesecloth
Instructions:
- Peel and chop the onions into small pieces.
- Place the chopped onions and their skins into the glass jar and pour in the red wine until everything is submerged. Securely close the lid and store the jar in a well-ventilated area.
- After a week, strain the mixture to separate the liquid from the solids. Store the onion wine in the refrigerator.
Note: Including the onion skins in the infusion maximizes its pain-relieving and blood pressure-lowering effects.
The Result:
The final product is a beautiful deep pink color, with a strong aroma of wine and a distinct onion flavor. It is not as unpleasant to drink as one might think.
3. How to Use Onion Wine
It is recommended to consume onion wine in moderation, with a maximum of two servings per day, not exceeding 50ml per serving. For older adults, the suggested amount is 20ml per serving. For optimal results, it is advisable to consume onions along with the wine.
For those who cannot tolerate alcohol, the wine can be diluted with an equal amount of water, boiled for 5 minutes, and then consumed after cooling. To treat joint pain, this remedy can be applied both internally and externally. Internally, follow the instructions above, consuming 50ml twice a day before meals. Externally, rub the onion wine onto the affected joints several times a day.
4. Storing Onion Wine
To store onion wine, separate the liquid from the solids and store them in separate airtight glass containers in the refrigerator.
5. Precautions
Onion wine is not suitable for individuals with liver conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. It should also be avoided by those with eye problems, stomach aches, or those currently taking traditional Eastern medicines to prevent any adverse reactions.
When preparing onion wine, it is recommended to use a glass jar instead of plastic to prevent any potential interaction between the wine and chemicals in the plastic, which could be harmful to health and alter the flavor. Before use, sterilize the glass jar by soaking it in boiling water and then drying it thoroughly with a clean cloth.
To ensure the safety and quality of the onion wine, it is advisable to prepare only enough for one month’s consumption and store it in the refrigerator.
We hope that through this article, you have gained valuable knowledge about the benefits of onion wine and how to prepare and use it safely. While it is a traditional remedy, it is important not to overuse it to avoid any potential side effects.