Despite its pungent odour, which may bother some, onion of all varieties offers numerous health benefits.
This is due to its content of vitamin C, sulphur compounds, flavonoids – which are powerful antioxidants – and other plant-based chemicals that together provide strong medicinal properties.
Onion also contains polyphenol compounds, which play an important role in preventing and reducing the development of serious diseases such as cancer and diabetes, in addition to improving the elasticity of blood vessels.
Preventing growth of cancer cells
Several studies have found that onion lowers the risk of stomach, digestive and respiratory cancers by up to 50 per cent, due to its high content of antioxidants and organic sulphur.
Regulating blood sugar
Research shows that onion extract can reduce high blood sugar levels and also improve cholesterol levels.
Preventing stomach ulcers
Eating onion helps prevent stomach ulcers by eliminating free radicals and stopping the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria known to cause ulcers.
Improving oral health
Onion helps prevent tooth decay and treat oral infections, thanks to its antibacterial properties, which kill mouth and throat germs.
Simply chew a piece of raw onion for two to three minutes as needed.
Strengthening immune system
The plant compounds in onion support the immune system against toxins and foreign bodies that may lead to illness.
Treating respiratory problems
Raw onion mixed with honey or brown sugar and soaked overnight acts as an effective remedy for respiratory issues such as cough, phlegm and congestion.
Stopping nosebleeds
For frequent nosebleeds, place a slice of raw onion directly under the nose. The vapour released helps clot the blood and stop the bleeding.
You may also soak cotton balls in onion juice and place one in each nostril for three to four minutes to stop the bleed.
Supporting heart and vascular health
Studies show that quercetin – found in onion – helps neutralise free radicals and inhibits oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which helps prevent atherosclerosis.
Onion also helps maintain vitamin E levels in the body, a powerful antioxidant known to support heart health.
Detoxifying body
Onion contains large amounts of sulphur-rich amino acids, which help remove toxins from the body. According to Dr James J. Saladaga, author of The Detox Revolution, onion plays a vital role in detoxification.
Studies also suggest that onion contains glutathione, a strong antioxidant used by the liver to clear toxins from the body.
