15 Health Benefits of Onions

Onion (Allium cepa) is a vegetable that belongs to genus Allium, the same family as chives, garlic, leeks, scallions and shallots. The onions are believed to be originated in central Asia, possibly in the Iran-Pakistan region. Today, they are probably the most widely cultivated species in the lily family, Allium.

There are many different varieties of onions, where red, yellow, and white onions are the most popular. Each of this variety has its own unique flavor, from very strong to mildly sweet flavor.

The onions have been used for thousands of years as an ingredient in various dishes by many cultures around the world. These vegetables can be eaten raw, cooked, fried, dried or roasted. They are commonly used as a flavoring and seasoning agent in many dishes.

Apart from adding an excellent taste to dishes, onions are also providing many health benefits to its users. In Chinese medicine, onions have been used to treat angina, coughs, bacterial infections, and respiratory problems. And even the World Health Organization (WHO) also supports the use of onions for the treatment of poor appetite and preventing atherosclerosis. Some health benefits of onions are as given below:

1)      Fight Cancer

Onion extract is rich in a variety of sulfides, which provide some protection against tumor growth. Some studies have shown, regular consumption of onions helps to reduce the risk of several cancers such as colorectal cancer, oral cancer, laryngeal cancer, stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, and ovarian cancer. It is suggested to consume one onion serving per day (approximately 1/2 cup).

2)      Cardiovascular Benefits

The regular consumption of onion has been shown to lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. This is attributed to the sulfur compounds, chromium, and vitamin B6 in onions, which helps prevent heart disease by lowering high homocysteine levels, another potential risk factor for heart attack and stroke.

3)      Reduce Blood Sugar Levels

The regular consumption of onions also have been shown to lower the blood sugar levels. A study found that, onions contain allyl propyl disulfide that helps to reduce the glucose levels by increasing the amount of insulin.

4)      Promotes Gastrointestinal Health

Onions packed with enormous flavonoids, these flavonoids help to reduce the risk of colon cancer. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of tumors in animals and to protect colon cells from the damaging effects of certain cancer-causing substances.

5)      Good for Skin

The onions help in stimulating the circulation of blood in the mucous membrane. It can be applied as poultice to boils, bruises, wounds, etc. Onion juice mixed with honey also can be the best home remedy for acne.

6)      Stimulate Hair Growth

Onion is rich in sulfur, which is one of the essential nutrients in promoting hair growth. A study has shown that applying onion juice on the scalp twice a week for 2 months will stimulate hair regrowth.

7)      Treats Cholera

Onion is an effective remedy for cholera. Grind about 30 grams of onions with 5-7 black peppers. Have 2-3 times of the mixture a day. This is an effective treatment for cholera. On the other hand, this also helps to lessens diarrhea and vomiting.

8)      Maintain Bone Health

A study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry revealed that onions also possess the ability of building connective tissue and bone health due to a newly identified substance in it called growth plate chondrocytes (GPCs). Hence onions are very beneficial for women who are at a risk for osteoporosis. There is also evidence to suggest that the risk of hip fracture in menopausal women may be lowered through regular consumption of onions.

9)      Remedy for Cold and Flu

Onion is also a great remedy for cold and flu. The Native Americans used them to ward off the common cold and flu. The World Health Organization has even recognized the onion for its ability to help relieve flu symptoms such as coughs, bronchitis, congestion, and respiratory infections.

10)   Relieve Tooth Disorders

Recent research shows that onions may kill bacteria that cause tooth decay and other dental problems. Chewing a raw onion for two to three minutes could kill all the germs in the mouth. Placing a small piece of onion on the affected tooth or bad tooth can also help in relieving toothache.

  

11)   Treat Urinary Disorders

Onion has diuretic properties, which are useful in treating urinary disorders. For those suffering from a burning sensation during urination, drink water boiled with 6 to 7 mg of onion, this may relieve the symptoms.

12)   Prevents Blood Clot

Onions are considered as natural anti-clotting agents. The sulfur contents in the onions can suppress clumping of platelets, thereby help in preventing blood clot.

13)   Improve Digestive Function

Onions are a good source of dietary fiber and prebiotics that encourage the growth of good bacteria in the digestive system, thereby improving digestive function.

14)   Protect against Allergies

The onions such as red onions are rich in Quercetin, an antioxidant which is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties. Flavonoid contained in them blocks the allergy creating histamine and other substances. According to a recent study, eye symptoms associated with hay fever are greatly reduced by quercetin. The suggested dosage is 200-400 mg thrice a day.

15)   Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

The quercetin found in onions, along with other substances, help promote a healthy immune system. These substances act as anti-inflammatory agents, which reduce the effect of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

When buying onions, choose the fresh ones that are clean, well-shaped, and have no opening at the neck. Avoid those that show sprouting or have signs of black mold as they indicate that the items are old. In addition, poor quality bulbs often have soft spots, moisture at their neck, and dark patches, which may all be indications of decay.