Every year in the spring, there is an unexpected visitor. The symptoms of the changing seasons are a sore throat and dry cough. Many people have a ticklish throat and a persistent cough, which makes their daily lives difficult, even though they don’t have a runny nose or fever like a cold. The issue is that over-the-counter cold remedies cannot manage these symptoms effectively.
Tea is becoming increasingly popular for those suffering from these seasonal symptoms. It has an unfamiliar name: “Liriope Tea.” This root tea is made from a traditional herbal remedy mentioned in the ancient Korean medical text Dongui Bogam, which is why it is becoming increasingly popular in pharmacies or hospitals.
The rhizome of the perennial Liriope plant, which belongs to the lily family, is primarily dried and used as medicine. Its name originates from the fact that it resembles purple rice grains. “Liriope (麥門冬)” itself means “winter barley grain” in Chinese characters.
Liriope has been known since ancient times for its ability to moisturize the lungs, stop coughing, and reduce fever. In particular, Liriope Tea has an excellent soothing effect when the throat is sore and dry coughing continues due to dry climates or fine dust. It also helps relieve excessive fever and dry mucous membranes, known as “lung heat,” suitable for people with sensitive bronchial tubes.
The Dongui Bogam says liriope “replenishes the lungs and stops dry cough and dysentery. “Liriope is also a commonly prescribed herbal remedy for respiratory conditions in contemporary Oriental medicine. Specifically, the medication known as “Liriope-tang” is frequently used to treat conditions like pharyngitis, laryngitis, dry cough, and chronic cough.
Liriope tea is good not only for throat health but also for replenishing moisture in the body, reducing fever, and strengthening immunity. During the changing seasons, the autonomic nervous system can easily collapse due to the daily temperature difference, and Liriope tea also helps to regulate the body’s balance. In particular, for people with dry mouths and easy thirst, as well as those with sensitive skin or mucous membranes in dry climates, Liriope acts as a natural moisturizer.
The method of consumption is simple. Add 10-15g of dried Liriope to 1 liter of water and boil over low heat for 30 minutes. The water turns light brown and has a subtle sweetness and a savory flavor unique to the root. Since it goes down smoothly without leaving a stiff feeling in the mouth, anyone from children to older people can drink it without any burden.
There are also some things to be careful about. Liriope is a medicinal herb better suited to people with no fever, that is, people who usually have cold hands and feet. On the other hand, people who have a cold stomach and frequent diarrhea should be careful because it can cause abdominal pain or diarrhea when taken for an extended period. Also, if you are taking it with medication, it is safe to consult a specialist before taking it.
Many products on the market offer Liriope tea in convenient teabag form. However, to fully experience its benefits, it is recommended that you prepare the herb by simmering it directly. Brewing a large batch at once, storing it in the refrigerator, and drinking two to three cups a day is considered the most effective approach.
The key to maintaining your health during seasonal transitions is properly regulating body heat and keeping the mucous membranes and airways well-moisturized. If you want to go beyond simply preventing colds and address everyday throat irritation and persistent coughing, it might be time to start with a cup of Liriope tea. The name may sound unfamiliar, but your body will recognize its effects immediately.
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