If vegetables had superhero status, onions would likely be at the top. This simple root vegetable offers a wide range of health benefits and is incredibly versatile. Since most of us usually have some on hand, onions make a great home remedy to turn to when you’re feeling under the weather due to a cold or flu.
Onions and garlic are both part of the allium family and share a lot of the same health perks. Fun fact: “Allium” comes from a word meaning “I smell,” and surely, onions are known for their strong odor.
Onions pack a punch in other ways, too. They’re rich in vitamin C, folate, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium, and are loaded with the antioxidant quercetin. Quercetin helps protect against various kinds of cancer, boosts the immune system, and can even aid with cataracts. Studies show that the quercetin in onions may improve heart health, help prevent heart disease, and support healthy blood circulation when used regularly.
Yellow onions typically contain more quercetin than their red or white counterparts, and they’re usually the most budget-friendly option.
When it comes to home remedies, onions can be quite handy. Here are a few ways I like to use them:
Onions act as an expectorant, helping to break up mucus in the chest and calm coughs. They work best when heated first—like in an onion poultice you can apply to the chest to ease congestion or as an onion syrup or tincture to take internally.
To make an onion poultice, you can apply it to the feet, wrap them up, and cover with socks to minimize the smell.
Another classic remedy is fire cider, made from onions, horseradish, garlic, cayenne pepper, and more, all steeped in apple cider vinegar. Onions add antiviral and antibacterial benefits to this mix, boosting the immune system. I like to call it “Spicy Cider.”
For a sweet approach to medication, try an onion syrup. Mixing onions with raw honey makes for a tasty syrup perfect for tackling a cold or flu, especially if you’re dealing with a cough or congestion. Just don’t overdo it—it can upset your stomach.
If you’ve ever used garlic oil for an ear infection, try using onion in a similar way. Place a warm, roasted onion half on the ear to soothe inflammation and fight infection. You can also squeeze out some juice and use a few drops in the ear, but make sure it’s strained well to avoid any pieces going in. Always treat both ears since infections often spread.
Soup is an easy and delicious way to include more onion in your diet. Save the peels and add them to bone broth for enhanced nutrition and flavor, as research suggests onion skins may have more quercetin. My garlic soup recipe includes onion and is great for fighting sickness. French onion soup is another tasty option for battling infections.
Onions are known for being rubefacient, meaning they increase blood flow to the skin. The ancient Greeks would rub onions on sore muscles to warm and stimulate them. They also reduce inflammation, making them ideal for treating bruises, strains, sprains, and rheumatism with an onion poultice.
Onions can be used to draw out infections from wounds, boils, and insect bites. Simply apply a fresh onion slice or poultice to the affected area.
Consider these onion-based recipes to incorporate this health-boosting ingredient into your meals. Though heat can lessen some of their antimicrobial properties, enjoying them raw in dishes like cucumber salad or pickled red onions can be both tasty and beneficial.
Have you ever turned to onions as a remedy? What are your favorite onion dishes or uses?
