Known by the scientific name “Allium cepa”, onion has been known for millennia to have therapeutic potential, just like the allium family, such as garlic, shallot, leek or chives. With its various vitamins, minerals and plant compounds, this vegetable preserves health in different ways. Here is an overview on how to use it.

In addition to adding flavor to our dishes and salads, onions are also enriching from a health point of view. Rich in sulfur and other nutrients, they have the advantage of being antibacterial, antiseptic and antiviral. Their antioxidants add to the panoply of their benefits, helping to fight free radicals and various diseases. Adopting onions in your diet allows the body to strengthen its immune system.

Due to its health benefits, onion can be eaten cooked or raw or simply used topically to treat various everyday ailments. Here are the reasons why it should be your health ally:

It is full of nutrients.

With only 39 calories for a medium onion, it still provides a significant dose of vitamins, minerals and fibre. Its richness in vitamin C gives it the advantage of protecting the body’s cells from free radicals. Not to mention its folate and pyridoxine content (B9 and B6) which allow the production of red blood cells and the protection of cognitive functions.

It may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Thanks to quercetin, a powerful antioxidant found in onions, they may reduce blood pressure and protect against blood clots and the risk of cardiovascular disease.

For optimal effectiveness, it is recommended to add it regularly to your salads and dishes, or to make a soup that you can enjoy to face the cold.

It has antibacterial properties

Once again, the quercetin contained in onions is said to play a key role in the fight against bacteria. According to a study , it is said to have an inhibitory effect on the growth of Helicobacter pylori and Staphylococcus aureus .

In case of scratching, mix the thin, transparent part of the onion with a tablespoon of olive oil. Heat slightly, then, once the mixture has cooled, apply the membrane to the affected area and leave it for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing with clean water.

Promotes digestive health

Onions are rich in prebiotics, essential for good intestinal health. The latter create short-chain fatty acids that, in addition to boosting immunity, reduce inflammation and improve digestion.

Regulates blood sugar

For people with diabetes or prediabetes, onions are a good ally for health. And for good reason, according to a preliminary study , Allium cepa is believed to produce hypoglycemic effects to control type 1 and 2 diabetes.

Promotes bone density

With age, bones tend to become fragile. According to a study , regular consumption of onions improves bone density, especially in premenopausal or menopausal women over 50 years of age.

By consuming onions, they would therefore have a lower risk of suffering a hip fracture than those who do not consume them.

Treats winter infections.

Onion is one of the medicinal herbs that, according to a study, would cure colds or even coughs, thanks to its antibacterial and antiviral power.

To do this, wash and peel an onion. Dip half of the onion in brown sugar and cover it with a clean cloth. After an hour, consume this remedy to relieve cough or cold.

Treats hair loss

Onion juice has been found effective in treating the problem of hair loss according to a study. Used directly on the scalp, it is an effective topical therapy to treat patchy alopecia and allow hair to grow back.

To do this, put an onion in a pan filled with water and boil it for about 10 minutes. Mash the onion in the pan and let the mixture cool. Collect the water from the food and rinse your hair with this lotion before your shampoo.

Improves the appearance of scars.

A randomized study established the efficacy of an onion extract gel on dermal scars. One application per day was sufficient to notice a considerable improvement in the appearance of the scar, its redness and roughness.

For a simple and natural home treatment, mix a white onion, a tablespoon of honey and the juice of a lemon in a blender. Then, apply your preparation on the scars and let it sit for about 15 minutes. After the time has elapsed, rinse thoroughly with warm water.

You can repeat this operation up to twice a week to regain smooth, blemish-free skin.