The benefits of onions are amazing for everyone. Is one of the oldest vegetables known to mankind. There are several varieties of this round vegetable: yellow, red (lighter and milder), white, pearl, and mild onions.
It is used as an additive or spice in all world cuisines. It can be found in the fresh, frozen, canned states, as well as in powder.
This vegetable can be used in almost any type of food.
Onion is a very healthy vegetable. The onion bulb contains valuable medicinal substances and can be used as a natural remedy for many ailments. In the diet, it is used all year round: young (green) onions in spring, young onions in summer, and ripe onions in winter.
From the nutrients, onions contain a lot of carbohydrates, in small amounts of vegetable proteins and fats. But the true value of onions in the diet comes from the content of vitamins and minerals.
It is a real treasure trove of vitamins, minerals, trace elements, herbal hormones…
Contains potassium, sulfur, vitamins B1, B2, C, K, P, beta-carotene. Onions act similarly to insulin in the body.
Onions are thought to help with a wide range of ailments, from the common cold to heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, rheumatism, and some other ailments.
It contains chemical compounds believed to have anti-inflammatory, anticholesterol, anticancer, and antioxidant properties.
One of these chemical compounds, which has many beneficial properties, is quercetin.
Origin of onions
Onion (scientist Allium Cepa) belongs to the plants of the genus Allium, family Alliaceae, which also includes garlic, leeks, etc.
It is one of the oldest cultivated vegetables known to man (it did not spoil easily, it was easy to transport, and suitable for canning by drying).
It probably originated in the Middle East and Asia. From the distant past, it was used for various medical purposes, fighting colds, flu, and various other diseases.
As we have said, due to its specific taste characteristics (taste and smell), it is widely used in every kitchen. Onion is used as a base for recipes, as a side dish, spice, but also in various salads and cream salads.
It can be found in fresh, frozen, canned, and dried forms in the markets. Depending on the type, there may be different flavor intensities, from the strongest to the mildest.
Red onions have a slightly milder taste, while yellow (white) has a slightly sharper taste. The well-known “crying” caused by onions is due to the flavonoid sulfur components released during cutting.
That is, during the “destruction” of its cells in whose membranes these components are located.
Nutritional value of onions
160g of fresh, chopped onions contain:
- 65kcal
- 15g carbohydrates
- 2g protein
- 0.2g fat
- 3g fiber
- 20% of Daily Vitamin C Needs
- 15% of daily needs for vitamin B6
- 10% of daily needs for manganese
- 10% of daily needs for vitamin B9
- 7% of daily needs for potassium
- 7% of daily needs for copper
- 5% of daily needs for magnesium
- 5% of daily needs for phosphorus
- also 5% of daily needs for vitamin B1
- 5% of daily needs for iron
In addition, onions contain lower concentrations of zinc, selenium, vitamin K, choline, and other B vitamins.
11 Benefits of onions for health
1. Powerful antioxidant effect
Antioxidants are the body’s defense mechanism against free radicals – harmful components that are constantly produced as metabolic waste in the body and oxidatively damage its various cells and tissues.
The body has mechanisms to produce a certain percentage of necessary antioxidants, but it still depends on the intake.
Permanent oxidative damage leads to processes of chronic inflammation or inflammation, which in the long run is one of the main reasons for the development of chronic diseases.
Red onions generally contain anthocyanins – special plant pigments (giving it a red color) from the group of flavonoid antioxidants.
Many studies have linked these antioxidants to better heart health.
For example, a study of more than 43,000 male volunteers found that those who took at least 600mg of anthocyanins daily had a 15% lower risk of a fatal heart attack.
Another study found a similar effect in women.
Anthocyanins have also been linked to anticancer effects.
In addition, different types of onions contain over 25 other types of flavonoid antioxidants of which the most famous and in the largest amount is quercetin (onion is the best source of this potent antioxidant).
read more: Weight Loss with Fruits and Vegetables
2. Great food for a healthy heart
The aforementioned flavonoid antioxidants, which are rich in different types of onions, can reduce chronic inflammation.
This is achieved through the fight against free radicals and the action to more successfully reduce blood fats and cholesterol.
Both effects are particularly important in reducing the risk of a range of cardiovascular diseases.
The powerful anti-inflammatory properties of onions can also reduce blood pressure, as well as prevent unwanted blood clots.
This has been demonstrated by a number of scientific studies.
In addition, potassium and fiber – components that are present in solid amounts in onions – have a certain positive effect on heart health.
Studies show that optimal potassium intake leads to a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke (lowers high blood pressure) and prevents muscle and bone loss.
This vegetable also contains a certain amount of magnesium, which is also good for heart health.
Fiber has been linked in a number of studies to low total blood cholesterol.
3. Onion is food for weight loss and digestive health
As we have seen, onions are really low in calories. This makes it great for adding to a healthy weight loss diet.
Also, something that is very important for the weight loss process – onions contain excellent amounts of fiber. Fiber is food for the intestinal microflora and helps in the gradual digestion of food.
This gradual digestion leads to the gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream, which keeps us full for a long time.
In addition, they can contribute to faster and longer satiety by binding free water in the stomach.
So, onions are rich in prebiotics from which the beneficial intestinal microflora can create short-chain fatty acids – acetate, propionate, and butyrate.
Numerous studies have linked these fatty acids to better digestive health, stronger immunity, reduced inflammation, improved mineral absorption (which is especially good for bone health), and so on.
Fiber also helps with one of the most common digestive health problems – constipation.
Research shows that increasing the amount of fiber in the body reduces the chances of developing colorectal cancer.
4. An excellent food for diabetics is onions
Eating onions can help control blood glucose, which is especially important for diabetics and those with prediabetes.
A study of volunteers with type 2 diabetes found that eating 100g of fresh red onions reduced sugar levels (on an empty stomach) by 40 mg/dl after 4 hours.
Additionally, there are numerous animal studies that provide similar data.
Such antidiabetic effects are thought to be due to the flavonoid antioxidants in onions, such as quercetin and other sulfur components.
5. Fights tumor processes
Concentrated onion extract contains a lot of sulfides.
These sulfides are very successful indirectly attacking cancer cells and the free radicals that cause them.
Research in the area shows that onions are very effective specifically against cancers of the stomach, mouth, colon, larynx, esophagus, ovaries.
6. Increases immunity
Onions contain polyphenols, which help the immune system work well.
They protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals, which interfere with the work of the immune system.
The selenium found in onions also stimulates the body’s defense mechanisms.
7. Lowers cholesterol
Daily consumption of half a head of onion or a whole bunch of fresh onions is great for health.
It helps reduce bad cholesterol and improve the work of the circulatory system.
This is shown by research conducted at the University of Hong Kong.
8. Relieves pain in the ears
For inflamed ears, freshly squeezed onion juice can be used.
Heat it gently before applying with a pipette.
9. Strong against dental problems
Dental infections, caries, and inflamed gums are detrimental to oral health.
Consumption of fresh onions, however, fights pathological bacteria in the oral cavity, neutralizes them, and protects them from damage to the teeth and gums.
Cancel bad breath on onions and eat it every day.
10. Improves digestive function
The fiber in onions makes it easier to process food in the intestines.
It protects against flatulence and bloating.
11. Acts as an aphrodisiac
Onion is a real aphrodisiac if you are not afraid of the smell of onion or garlic in the breath.
The compounds in it improve circulation and stimulate the excitability of nerve endings.
read more: Pumpkin Vegetable is Excellent for human Health
Onions for home treatment
1. Onion is effective against cough
Peel an onion and cut it in half and place a tablespoon of brown sugar on top of each piece and cover for an hour.
Eat it twice a day to get rid of the cough. Sulfur in onions has antibacterial properties that kill cough-causing microorganisms
Sulfur also functions as a detoxifier to release toxins from the body.
Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce the inflammation that occurs when coughing.
2. Relieve clogging in the chest with onions
Grind onion and make a paste by adding coconut oil.
Smear the breast with the paste and cover it with a towel.
Onion works as a natural antibiotic and strengthens the immune system.
The steam that the onion gives also works as an expectorant to loosen the mucous membranes in the chest that cause coughing.
3. Soothe baby cramps with onions
To soothe a baby’s cramps, give him a teaspoon of onion every hour until he calms down.
Onions have properties to relax muscles, strengthen the stomach and regulate the digestive system.
Boil a piece of yellow onion and leave it to cool until it dries.
4. Onions soothe insect bites
Put a slice of onion or some fresh onion juice on the sting to soothe it.
The anti-inflammatory properties of onions will reduce inflammation and discomfort from insect bites.
Chop the onion and put it inside a thin sock and fasten it closed.
Put the sock on the ear and hold it instead of a hat.
Leave it until the pain disappears.
5. Onions help cut skin
Use the film on your onion skin for cuts.
This will act as an antiseptic that will quickly stop the bleeding.
Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory properties help the wound to heal, while its antimicrobial properties will prevent it from becoming infected.
6. Soothe a sore throat with onion gargle
Make a peel from the skin and water the onion. Drink a little and gargle with it.
If the taste is unbearable, you can add a little lemon and honey.
The anti-inflammatory properties of onions will reduce sore throat and inflammation.
7. Vomiting will be reduced by using onions
Chop the onion and squeeze it and collect the onion juice.
Make some mint tea and let it cool.
Drink two teaspoons of onion juice and wait five minutes.
Then drink two teaspoons of peppermint tea.
Repeat this until you stop vomiting.
8. Onions against fever
Cut a few thin slices of onion.
Apply coconut oil to the bottom of the feet and apply the thin pieces to the ankle of each foot.
Wrap the leg in plastic wrap and cover it with a sock.
Onions will remove toxins, bacteria, and diseases from the body overnight.
Are roasted onions as good for health as fresh ones?
Roasted onions are used to treat abscesses and hemorrhoids, but are great for both diabetics and patients with high blood pressure.
Baked onions have also been found to be more beneficial than fresh onions.
But do you know why?
It has a strong antibacterial effect, heals wounds, normalizes blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
In addition, it loses its pungent odor and has a pleasant taste!
Roasted onions will help you fight ulcers and long-lasting wounds.
All you have to do is fry the onion directly in its shell and put it on the wound until it softens.
Use roasted onions to treat abscesses.
Put the hot onion on the problem area for 20 minutes a day as a dressing and the abscess will soon disappear.
Thanks to the baked onion from the oven, you can also cure hemorrhoids.
Onion dressings have disinfectant properties and help the tissue to regenerate faster.
Consumption of roasted onions is recommended for everyone who has problems with blood clotting.
After a heart attack or stroke, consuming such onions daily is recommended.
It is very important for people who suffer from diabetes or have a predisposition for it, to introduce onions prepared in this way in their menu.
Add it to the main dish or follow a one-week diet with roasted onions in the morning on an empty stomach and you will see the effect.
All this is due to the composition of this vegetable – sulfur and iron in roasted onions help to normalize blood sugar levels and maintain proper function of the pancreas and liver.
The use of roasted onions also improves the condition of patients with hypertension and atherosclerosis.
This onion helps cleanse blood vessels, relieves atherosclerotic plaques, and prevents a sudden jump in blood pressure.
Once the onion is baked in the oven, only the essential oils that give it a fresh taste disappear, but the benefits remain.
Choose a medium onion for roasting – it contains the largest amount of useful trace elements.
read more: Amazing Reasons to Eat Beets For Health Benefits
Onions are great for hair health
1.Effective against hair loss
The sulfur in onions and garlic not only fights hair loss but also stimulates hair growth.
It is also useful for the scalp itself because it inhibits the microorganisms that cause dandruff and itching.
2. Onion masks against hair loss and rapid hair growth
Onion is one of the best gifts of nature.
It is a great hair conditioner if you are experiencing blooming tips and falling out.
Onions contain sulfur that nourishes the hair roots and accelerates their growth.
Here are some onion-based masks:
3. Mask with onion juice
Squeeze the onion juice and mix it with water in a ratio of 2: 1.
Apply to hair, especially the scalp, and leave on for 30 minutes.
You can wrap your hair in a towel so that the onion can be absorbed into the hair follicles.
4. Mask of onion and coconut oil
When mixed with oil, onion juice accelerates hair growth and nourishes it.
Mix the onion juice with the oil and massage the hair.
Wrap it in a towel and let it stand for 30 minutes.
5. Mask with onion and beer
You can mix onion slices or onion juice with beer to speed up hair growth.
Apply the mask twice a week.
6. Mask with onions and honey
This is the most effective combination to accelerate hair growth.
Mash the onion and add a little honey.
Apply it on the hair and leave it to stand.
Wash your hair with lukewarm water.
7. Onions and rum for a great hair mask
Put one onion in a glass of rum to stand overnight.
The next morning, massage your hair with this mixture.
8. Onions and lemon
You can use a combination of onion and lemon for hair growth and treat dandruff.
Lemon juice reduces hair loss.
9. Mask with onions and yogurt
Add a tablespoon of yogurt to the onion juice.
Mix well and massage the scalp.
Leave on for 45 minutes, then wash your head with a mild shampoo.
10. Helps fight hair loss
Boil some water with onions in it and use the liquid as preparation before shampooing to help fight hair loss and hair growth.
Its antimicrobial properties will stop dandruff and promote new growth, while antioxidants will stop hair loss and help it become thicker and stronger.
Onion is effective for our skin
As good as it is for the hair, the onion is also great for the skin.
1. Red onion to lighten the skin
Onion acid has natural skin-lightening properties that can help fight dark spots.
To use this property of the onion you need to squeeze the onion juice.
Next is to apply it with a cotton swab on the dark spots.
Leave on for about 10 minutes, then all you have to do is rinse your skin with water.
2. Reduce dark spots on the skin with onion and vinegar
Most often these spots appear on the face, arms and shoulders, and legs, and over the years their number is constantly increasing.
In the following, we will show you a very simple but effective natural product that will help you get rid of these spots, and your skin will look better and younger.
You will only need two ingredients to mix and apply to the affected area.
At stake are:
- onions
- vinegar
Fresh onion juice has long been used to treat scars and other skin problems because it contains antioxidants that protect the skin.
Vinegar or apple cider vinegar contains hydroxy acids that eliminate dead skin cells, and in combination with onions can do wonders for your skin.
Method of preparation:
Take a fresh onion and chop it into small cubes, then put it in a blender and mix well. Then add the vinegar, stirring until the ingredients are even.
Take a cotton ball and soak it in the mixture and then apply it on the parts of the skin where there are brown spots.
This treatment is done every day, for about a month.
The first effects will be noticed after only seven days, but continue to apply until you get rid of the brown spots completely.
Conclusion
Onions have many benefits for our health, skincare, hair, and of course a healthy option in our daily diet.
The very composition of the onion that is rich in vitamins and minerals, trace elements, herbal hormones…
Contains good amounts of potassium, sulfur, vitamins B1, B2, C, K, P, beta-carotene, etc.
Onions contain nutrients, a lot of carbohydrates, in small amounts of vegetable proteins and fats.
But the true value of onions in the diet certainly comes from the content of vitamins and minerals.
Onions help maintain and care for the skin and hair with a large selection of masks, as well as home remedies with onions and other ingredients.
When all is taken into account, this vegetable is one of the healthiest and best that nature has given us for our health.
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