The primary reasons this remedy is believed to help with lungs and immunity include:

Expectorant Properties: Onions contain sulfur compounds that act as natural expectorants, helping to thin and loosen phlegm, making it easier to expel.

Quercetin for Immunity: Red onions, in particular, are rich in quercetin, a potent antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation in the bronchial tubes and supports white blood cell function to fight infection.

Anti-Inflammatory: The warmth of the liquid combined with onion’s natural anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe a raw, irritated throat and calm a dry cough.

Natural Antimicrobial: Onions have mild antibacterial and antiviral properties that may assist the body in recovering from common seasonal viruses.

Traditional Immune-Boosting Onion Tea
This recipe is a gentle way to consume the beneficial compounds of the onion. Adding honey and lemon not only improves the flavor but also adds additional vitamin C and throat-soothing benefits.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients
1 large Red Onion (Organic is best as you will use the skin)

4 cups Water

1 tablespoon Raw honey (added at the end)

1/2 Lemon, juiced

Optional: 1 cinnamon stick or a few slices of fresh ginger for extra warmth.

Instructions
Prepare the Onion: Rinse the onion thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut it into quarters, leaving the skin on. The skin contains a very high concentration of quercetin.

Boil: Place the onion quarters in a medium pot with the 4 cups of water. If using ginger or cinnamon, add them now.

Simmer: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the water turns a pinkish or amber hue.

Strain: Pour the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a mug or jar, discarding the boiled onion pieces.

Sweeten: Let the tea cool slightly (so as not to destroy the enzymes in the honey), then stir in the lemon juice and honey.

Sip: Drink it warm, 2–3 times a day, particularly before bed to help soothe nighttime coughing.

Note: This tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stove.

Important Considerations
While this is a helpful supportive measure, please keep the following in mind:

Hydration: The biggest benefit of this remedy is often the hydration it provides, which is essential for thinning mucus.