Onion, this staple of our kitchen has many health benefits. Here are 9 reasons to use it daily to ward off disease. Known under the scientific name of "Allium cepa", onions have been known for thousands of years to have therapeutic potential, like the family of alliaceae, such as garlic, shallots, leeks and chive. With its various vitamins, minerals and plant compounds, this vegetable preserves health in various ways. Here's an overview on how to use it.
In addition to adding flavor to our dishes and salads, onions are health enriching. Rich in sulfur and other nutrients, it has the advantage of being antibacterial, antiseptic and antiviral. Its antioxidants add to the panoply of its benefits, helping to fight against free radicals and various diseases. To adopt the onion in its food, it is to allow the organism to strengthen its immune system.
Because of its health benefits, onions can be eaten cooked or raw or simply for topical use to treat various everyday ailments. Here are the reasons to make it your health ally:
1- Onion is full of nutrients
With only 39 calories for a medium onion, it still provides a significant dose of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Its richness in vitamin C gives it the advantage of protecting the cells of the body against free radicals. Without forgetting its content of folate and pyridoxine (B9 and B6) which allow the production of red blood cells and the protection of cognitive functions.
2- Onion can reduce the risk of heart disease
Thanks to quercetin, a powerful antioxidant found in onions, it could lower 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 cope with the cold.
3- Onion has antibacterial properties
Again, the quercetin in onions is said to play a fundamental role in the fight against bacteria. According to a study, it has an inhibiting effect on the growth of Helicobacter pylori and Staphylococcus aureus.
In case of a scratch, mix the thin and transparent part of the onion with a tablespoon of olive oil. Heat slightly, then once the mixture has cooled down, apply the membrane to the affected area and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing with clean water.
4- Onion promotes digestive health
The onion is rich in prebiotics, essential for good intestinal health. These create short chain fatty acids which, in addition to strengthening immunity, reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
5- Onion regulates blood sugar
For people with diabetes or pre-diabetes, the onion will be their health ally. And for good reason, according to a preliminary study, Allium cepa would produce hypoglycemic effects to manage type 1 and 2 diabetes.
6- Onion promotes bone density
With age, bones tend to weaken. Regular consumption of onions would, according to a study, improve bone density, especially in women in pre-menopause or menopause with an age exceeding 50 years.
By consuming onion, they would therefore be less likely to suffer from a hip fracture than those who would not consume it.
7- Onion treats winter infections
The onion is one of the medicinal herbs which, according to a study, would treat colds or coughs, thanks to its antibacterial and antiviral power.
To do this, wash and peel an onion. Dip half the onion in brown sugar and cover with a clean cloth. After an hour, consume this remedy to relieve yourself from coughs or colds.
8- Onion treats hair loss
Onion juice has been found to be effective in one study to treat the problem of hair loss. Used directly on the scalp, it is an effective topical therapy to treat uneven alopecia and allow hair regrowth.
To do this, put an onion in a saucepan filled with water and boil 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 shampooing.
9- Onion improves the appearance of scars
A new study has established the effectiveness of an onion extract gel on dermal scars. One application per day was enough to see a considerable improvement in the appearance of the scar, its redness and roughness.
For a simple and natural homemade 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 leave on for about 15 minutes. After the time has elapsed, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
You can repeat this operation up to twice a week to regain smooth, flawless skin.