This widely circulated message claims that placing onions around a room can absorb the flu virus

and thus prevent people from catching the flu and becoming ill. It tells the story of a farming family that escaped the devastating flu epidemic of 1919 supposedly by placing onions in the rooms of the farmhouse. It relates other cases in which onions supposedly prevented people from getting the flu or at least aided their recovery from illness. According to the message, onions can absorb and contain not only viruses such as those that cause flu but also bacteria that cause other types of illness. The message also claims that placing onions and garlic around rooms saved many people from getting the Black Plague.

However, there is no credible scientific evidence that supports the claims in the message. Scientists have repudiated the idea that onions can act as "magnets" that attract bacteria or viruses. In an article debunking another onion myth (which suggests that raw onions are a magnet for bacteria and can therefore make you ill), Dr Joe Schwarcz of McGill University's Office for Science and Society explains: [T]he terminology that onions are "bacterial magnets" makes no sense. No food attracts bacteria, although of course some are more likely to support bacterial multiplication once infected. An article on The Chemist's Kitchen website about the humble onion's supposed propensity to attract bacteria concurs with Dr Schwarcz's view, noting: Nothing is a bacteria magnet. Firstly, bacteria have minimal mobility. They usually travel in water droplets, if at all. Sneezes, for example. Moulds can release spores which get blown around but bacteria usually grows in moist environments and are slimy, making getting airborne difficult. Secondly, if there was such a thing as a 'bacteria magnet' it would be enormously useful in the medical field for drawing bacteria away from the ill and infirmed. Not such use has been made of onions. And a November 2009 Wall Street Journal article about home flu cures notes: Biologists say it's highly implausible that onions could attract flu virus as a bug zapper traps flies. Viruses require a living host to replicate and can't propel themselves out of a body and across a room. When outside of a host, viruses are metabolically inert and cannot reproduce. While outside of host cells, they exist as a protein coat or capsid. If the virus in its inert form comes into contact with a suitable host, it can insert its genetic material into its host. Given these facts, it is stretching credibility to

suggest that an onion can somehow magically draw viruses in a room into itself and safely contain them. There is no plausible scientific reason why an onion would have such properties.

As with many such circulated health tips, the message does not present any plausible evidence to back up its claims. The story of the doctor's 1919 visit to the healthy farm family's home, along with the supposed reason for their continued health, is just that - a story. No names or other references are included that would allow the veracity of the story to be checked. And the other incidents described in the message are unsubstantiated, anecdotal, and, in any case, prove nothing. The fact that a group of people - such as the staff in a hairdressing salon - did not contract flu in a particular year can not be seen as credible evidence that onions placed around the room were what stopped them from becoming ill. A cut onion left in a jar is likely to become darkened and "messy" regardless of any supposed ability to absorb germs. The pneumonia sufferer may well have began to feel better just as quickly even if no onion was in her sick room.

The myth that onions can somehow absorb the agents of disease and thereby prevent illness goes back centuries. During the dark and dreadful days of the Black Plague in the 14th century, many believed that a strategically placed onion in a dwelling could indeed ward off the plague. However, this tactic did not "save many from the black plague" as claimed in the message. In truth, onions are no more likely to attract and absorb Bubonic Plague bacteria (or the haemorrhagic fever virus that some researchers suggest may have been the real cause of the Black Death) than they are to absorb and attract more modern threats such as the H1N1 virus (swine flu). Those who lived at the time of the Black Death tended to believe that a miasma - a poisonous vapor or mist - was responsible for spreading the plague. They used many tactics to try to ward off this miasma including strong scents and even loud noises. Given the level of knowledge at the time, it is hardly surprising that people believed that a strong smelling substance such as onion might absorb this deadly miasma. These days, with our much greater understanding of bacteria and viruses and how they spread, it is considerably more surprising that some people still believe that onions can somehow magically drag the agents of disease from the air of a room and render them harmless.

While the idea that onions can attract and absorb bacteria and viruses is frankly rather silly, it should be noted that onions have long been thought to have medicinal benefits when consumed in various ways. And there may be

some truth to these claims. The above mentioned Wall Street Journal article notes: The idea that onions have medicinal properties goes back millennia and spans many cultures. Egyptians thought onions were fertility symbols. Ancient Greeks rubbed them on sore muscles, and Native Americans used them to treat coughs and colds. Herbalists note that the World Health Organization recognizes onion extracts for providing relief in the treatment of coughs, colds, asthma and bronchitis. And a literature review about the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of garlic and onions published in a 2007 issue of Nutrition & Food Science notes in its abstract: Both garlic and onions exert their effects on human health via multiple different functions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. The organosulphur compounds in these spices scavenge oxidizing agents, inhibit the oxidation of fatty acids, thereby preventing the formation of pro-inflammatory messengers, and inhibit bacterial growth, via interaction with sulphur-containing enzymes. However, the fact that onions may hold some demonstrable medicinal properties, does not in any way validate the fanciful notion that an onion can collect and store bacteria and viruses in a room. Last updated: 17th February 2011 First published: 17th February 2011 Article written by Brett M. Christensen http://www.hoax-slayer.com/onions-flu-remedy.shtml ---------------------------------------

Available on line www.jocpr.com

Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research

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ISSN No: 0975-7384

J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291

283

Allium cepa: A traditional medicinal herb and its health benefits

K. P. Sampath Kumar*1, Debjit Bhowmik2, Chiranjib2, Biswajit2 and Pankaj Tiwari2 1Dept. of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Coimbatore Medical College, Coimbatore 2Rajeev Gandhi College of Pharmacy, Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh

__________________________________________________________________________ ____ Abstract Allium cepa is highly valued for its therapeutic properties. It has been used as a food remedy from time immemorial.Research shows that onions may help guard against many chronic diseases. That's probably because onions contain generous amounts of the flavonoid quercetin. Studies have shown that quercetin protects against cataracts, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. In addition, onions contain a variety of other naturally occurring chemicals known as organosulfur com-pounds that have been linked to lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.Although rarely used specifically as a medicinal herb, the onion has a wide range of beneficial actions on the body and when eaten (especially raw) on a regular basis will promote the general health of the body. The bulb is anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypoglycaemic, hypotensive, lithontripic, stomachic and tonic. When used regularly in the diet it offsets tendencies towards angina, arteriosclerosis and heart attack. This is used particularly in the treatment of people whose symptoms include running eyes and nose. The onions ability to relieve congestions especially in the lungs and bronchial tract, is hard to believe until you have actually witnessed the results. The drawing of infection, congestion and colds out of the ear is also remarkable. The onion will relieve stomach upset and other gastrointestinal disorders and it will also strengthen the appetite. Pharmacologically know as Allium cepa, onion is found in every household. The purple skinned onion tastes great. Additionally, it has several health benefits and is part of many home remedies and beauty solutions. Key words: Allium cepa, sexual debility, appetizer. ___________________________________________________________________________ ___ K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 284 Introduction Allium cepa is usually thought of as a vegetable, It is also has a long history of medicinal use. Mainly the fleshy bulb that grows below the ground is used medicinally as well as for food but other parts of the plant also has a place in the traditional medicines. Allium cepa is the common onion. Although it is usually thought of as a vegetable, A. cepa also has a long history of medicinal use. Onions are perennials that are cultivated for food worldwide. There are many varieties. Most onion bulbs are white, yellow, or red. The green stems and leaves are hollow and can reach 3 ft (1 m) in height. The plants bear small flowers that are usually white or purple. The

fleshy bulb that grows below the ground is used medicinally as well as for food. Onion is believed to have a positive effect on the circulatory system. It has been used as a diuretic to reduce swelling. It is also thought to help reduce arteriosclerosis by lowering blood cholesterol levels and preventing the formation of blood clots. Onion has been used to treat diabetes and is reputed to lower blood sugar levels.Externally; fresh onion juice is used to prevent bacterial and fungal infections. It can be applied to wounds and stings on the skin, used to remove warts, used to stimulate hair growth, and even used to reduce unwanted skin blemishes. Warm onion juice dropped in the ear is said to help relieve earache. Baked onion is used to draw pus from abscesses.Modern scientific research supports many of the traditional uses for onion. Onion contains thiosulphinate, a compound that is effective in killing many common bacteria, including Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonasaeriginosa, and Escherichia coli. This finding supports the folk use of onion to treat wounds and skin infections and possibly its use for an upset stomach. Even more supportive are small clinical studies on humans that show that both fresh onions and commercial onion extracts actually lower bloodcholesterol levels, lower blood pressure and help prevent the formation of blood clots. Although these studies have been done on only a small number of people, they are consistently supported by additional data from animal and test-tube studies. Onions are perennials that are cultivated for food worldwide. There are many varieties. Most onion bulbs are white, yellow, or red. The green stems and leaves are hollow and can reach 3 ft (1 m) in height. The plants bear small flowers that are usually white or purple. The fleshy bulb that grows below the ground is used medicinally as well as for food. Onions are members of the lily family. Onion is believed to have a positive effect on the circulatory system. It has been used as a diuretic to reduce swelling. It is also thought to help reduce arteriosclerosis by lowering bloodcholesterol levels and preventing the formation of blood clots. Onion has been used to treat diabetes and is reputed to lower blood sugar levels.Externally; fresh onion juice is used to prevent bacterial and fungal infections. It can be applied to wounds and stings on the skin, used to remove warts, used to stimulate hair growth, and even used to reduce unwanted skin blemishes. Warm onion juice dropped in the ear is said to help relieve earache. Baked onion is used to draw pus from abscesses.Modern scientific research supports many of the traditional uses for onion. Onion contains thiosulphinate, a compound that is effective in killing many common bacteria, including Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeriginosa, and Escherichia coli. This finding supports the folk use of onion to treat wounds

and skin infections and possibly its use for an upset stomach. The main properties of onion include antimicrobial activity, cardiovascular support, hypoglycemic action, antioxidant/anticancer effect, and asthma protection. More research is needed in the area of asthma treatment, although certain compounds are said to inhibit bronchoconstriction. The bulb contains certain sulfur compounds that are known to be antimicrobial. The onion also may be of benefit in cardiovascular disease, as it possesses hypolipidemic effects and has antiplatelet actions, retarding thrombosis. But K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 285 certain lipid-reducing and blood pressure-lowering effects in humans have not yet been clinically proven. Some studies have been performed concerning diabetes treatment by onion with promising results in animal experimentation. Although more research is needed on the use of onion as a treatment for diabetes in humans, many articles describe onion's benefits in improving glucose levels. The onion also is a proven antioxidant and may be helpful in treating certain cancers. More clinical research is needed to understand the many medicinal benefits of onion. Botanical Source The common onion is a biennial garden plant, having a scape, which appears the second year, 2 to 4 feet high, being naked, smooth, straight, stout, swollen at the base, and fistulous, bearing at the top a round umbel of greenish-white flowers. The leaves are round and fistulous, of a shining green color, acute, and shorter than the stem. The part employed is the bulb. Description The onion is a tunicated bulb, compressed or round, or oblong in figure, invested with a shining, thin, dry membrane, of a reddish or white color. It is less pungent to the taste than garlic, with some degree of sweetness, and a peculiar, well-known odor. Onion bulbs are of various shapes and sizes, usually globular, the layers being juicy. Scientific classification Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Liliopsida Order: Asparagales Family: Alliaceae Genus: Allium Species: A. cepa Edible Parts: Flowers, Leaves, Root, Seed.

Action and Medical Uses Onion possesses properties allied to those of garlic, but in a milder degree, and the absorption of its oil and influence upon the system is somewhat similar to that of the oil of garlic. Onions do not agree with all persons, especially dyspeptics, in whom they favor the production of flatus, which, however, is a common symptom among all those who eat largely of them; boiling, in a great measure, deprives them of this property. Sugar and onion-juice form a syrup, much used in domestic practice, for cough and other affections of the air-tubes among children. A roasted onion employed as a cataplasm to suppurating tumors, or to the ear in otitis, has proved beneficial. A saturated tincture of onions made with good Holland gin, has been found serviceable in gravel and dropsical affections. A cataplasm of onions pounded with vinegar, applied for a number of days, and changed 3 times a day, has been found to cure corns and bunions. Green Onion as Alternative Medicine It is mainly used as a traditional medicine for common cold. It stimulates the respiratory tract and helps in expelling sputum (phlegm). K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 286 It contains essential oils that stimulates the sweat glands and promote sweating. It normalizes blood pressure. It increases appetite. It helps prevent diarrhea. It is rich in sulfur, an essential element that kills or inhibits fungus infections. It inhibits cancer cell growth especially colon cancer. Green onion's anti-colon cancer properties are well known among traditional healers around the world. It contains vitamin A and C. The white part of it has calcium, too. It is a good appetizer. Topical Application of Green Onion For Sore Throat Cut the green onion's white part into pieces. Put it in a cloth bag and steam it for a hot compress. You can also mix the green onion with grated ginger and some salt. Wrap the hot bag in a towel or gauze and place it over the throat, chest, soles, palms, back, and armpits. It promotes perspiration and lowers the heat and pain. This method is known since the ancient times, and it is as good as commercially sold plasters. For Swollen Feet Boil the whole green onion for a few minutes. Grind it and mix with a little water just enough to make a paste, and then place it to the swollen part of your feet. This simple method is used since hundreds of years ago by our ancestors.

Side Effects of Onion The toxicity of large doses of onion has been unresolved, but the stomach may be affected. Frequent contact with onion seeds has been reported as an occupational allergen. Dosage Most human studies that have shown an effect from onions used at least 25 grams per day and often two to four times that amount. Though some studies have found cooked onions acceptable, several studies suggest that onion constituents are degraded by cooking and that fresh or raw onions are probably most active. If a tincture, syrup, or oil extract is used, 1 tablespoon three times per day may be necessary for several months before effects are noted. Toxicology Certain sulfur compounds (eg, propanethial-s-oxide) escape from the onion in vapor form and hydrolyze to sulfuric acid when it is cut, causing the familiar eye irritation and lacrimation. Corneal swelling from onion exposure has been reported. Using a sharp knife also minimizes the crushing of onion tissue and liberation of volatiles, and cutting an onion under running water avoids lacrimation. Ingestion of onion seems relatively safe, as the German Commission E lists no contraindications, side effects, or interactions from the plant. With large intake, the stomach may be affected, and frequent contact with onion rarely may cause allergic reaction. The onion seeds have been reported as an occupational allergen. Onion toxicity is only accociated with high intake. A review of onion discussing ingestion of large amounts of the bulb finds toxicity unresolved. K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 287 Food Value of Onion Onion which derived its name from the Latin Onio and French Oignon, has been described by some one as the dynamite of all natural foods. Compared with other fresh vegetables, it is relatively high in food value, moderate in protein content and is rich in calcium and riboflavin. There is considerable variation in composition between different varieties and it also varies with the stage of maturity and the length of storage.The odor in onion is due to organic sulphur compounds, and is produced only when they are cut or injured, by enzyme action on a watersoluble amino acid. Heating, freezing and drying prevent the enzyme action. That is why cooking produces a different odor, flavor and pungency. The pungent flavor is appreciated by many people in many countries. The strong odor lingers for a considerable amount of time after consumption. It is said to be due to small particles retained is the mouth which cannot always

be removed by brushing. Onion is one of the vegetables which has the best keeping quality. The dried cured bulbs may be kept for several months without deterioration and can stand rough handling. Food value of onion Values per 100 gms edible portion Moisture 86.6% Calcium 47 mg Protein 1.2% Phosphorus 50 mg Fat 0.1% Iron 0.7 mg Minerals 0.6% Vitamin C 11 mg Fibre 0.4% Carbohydrates 11.1% Medicinal uses of onion Due to the anti-inflammatory agents in onions they help reduce the severity of symptoms associated with conditions such as the pain and swelling of the osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, the allergic inflammatory response of asthma, and the respiratory congestion associated with common colds. The onions anti-inflammatory effects are not only due to their vitamin C and quercetin, but other active components called isothiocyanates have made onions a good ingredient for soups and stews during cold and flu season. WHO recommends the use of fresh onion extracts for treating coughs, colds, asthma, bronchitis and also relieving hoarseness. The World Health Organization also supports the use of onions for the treatment of appetite loss and preventing atherosclerosis. Similar to garlic, the regular consumption of onion lowers blood pressure and the serum levels of cholesterol and triglyceride, while increasing HDL levels. As a result, it prevents atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease, and reduces the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Onions are considered as one of the small number of vegetables which reduce heart disease risk. This beneficial effect is attributed to its vitamin B6, which lowers homocysteine levels, an important risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. Onions are natural anti-clotting agents due to their sulfur content. In ancient Greece, large quantities of onion were consumed in order to lighten the balance of blood. The high amount of fructooligosaccharide in onions stimulates the growth of healthy bacteria and suppresses the potentially harmful bacteria in the colon such as Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella, and E. coli. Sulfides in onion extracts provide protection against tumor growth especially stomach and colon cancer. Roasted K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 288 onions are good for earaches. They have also been recommended for treating headaches,

snakebites, hair loss and infertility in women. In many parts of the world, onions are used to heal blisters and boils. Products containing onion extract (such as Mederma) are used to treat scars, they also relieve itching secondary to allergy. In homeopathy, Allium cepa is used for rhinorrhea and hay fever. Onions are believed to be effective in diabetes. Its Allyl propyl disulfide and chromium can decrease fasting blood glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance, and lower insulin levels. Onions may be especially beneficial for women, who are at increased risk of osteoporosis during the menopause. Onion's gamma-L-glutamyl-trans-S-1-propenyl-Lcysteine sulfoxide (GPCS) inhibits the osteoclasts (the cells which break down bone) activity and fights osteoporosis. Onion syrup is useful in extracting renal stones. Onions are also a recommended treatment for edema due to their diuretic effect. They also promote the menstrual periods. Health Benefits of Onion Several parts of the plant have a place in the traditional medicines. The seeds of onion increase semen and relieve dental worms and urinary diseases. The stalks of onion are a source of Vitamin A, thiamin and ascorbic acid are used in both tender and mature stages. Respiratory Disease :- Onion is said to possess expectorant progenies. It liquefies phelgm and prevents its further formation. It has been used as a food remedy for centuries in cold, cough, bronchitis and influenza. Equal amounts of onion juice and honey should be mixed and three to four teaspoon of this mixture should be taken daily in these conditions. It is one of the safest preventive medicine against common cold during winter. Tooth Disorders :- Latest researches of Russian doctors have further confirmed the bactericidal properties of onion. According to these findings, if a pers0n consumes one raw onion every day by thorough mastication, he will be Protected from a host of tooth disorders. The Russian Doctor, B.P. Tohkin, who has contributed to this research, has expressed the opinion that chewing raw onion for three minutes is sufficient to kill all the germs in the mouth. Toothache is often allayed by placing a small piece of onion on the bad tooth or gum. Anemia :- Onions are noted for their easily assimilate iron content. They are, therefore, beneficial in the treatment of anemia. Heart Disease :- Recent researches in the West have established onion as an effective preventive food item against heart attack. Dr. N.N. Gupta of the K.G. Medical College, Lucknow, in 1966, and a panel of doctors in England in 1968 have stated that onion has been found helpful and beneficial in diseases of the heart. According to .them these benefits are due to the presence of essential oil, aliypropyl disulphide, catechol, protocatechnic acid, thiopropiono atdehyde,

thiocyanate, calcium, iron, phosphorus and vitamins in onion.Dr. N. Radhakrishnan, Principal of the Trivandrum Medical College and Dr. K. Madhavan Kutty have established, after seven years of research, that to get rid of coronary heart or blood pressure disorders and one should take 100 gms. of onion per day. The onion are very valuable in heart diseases as they correct thrombosis and also reduce blood cholesterol. Sexual Debility :- Onion is one of the most important aphrodisiac foods. As an aphrodisiac, onion stands second only to garlic. It increases libido and strengthens the reproductory organs. The white variety of onion should be peeled off, crushed and fried in pure butter. This mixture K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 289 acts as an excellent aphrodisiac tonic if taken regularly with a spoon of honey on an empty stomach. The powder of black gram when dipped in the juice of onion for seven days and then dried, produces a mixture called kanji. This also acts an an aphrodisiac. Skin Disorders :- Onion is irritating to the skin and stimulates the circulation of blood in the mucous membrane. Warts also sometimes disappear if rubbed with cut onions. Roasted or 9therwise, onions are applied as a poultice to. boils, bruises, wounds, etc., to bring the boils tomaturity by its heaty sensation. Ear Disorders :- Onion juice dipped on cotton wool and put into the ear is a popular Russian remedy for ringing sound in the ears. Dropped hot in the ear, it relieves earache. Cholera :- Onion is an effective remedy for cholera. About 30 grams of onion and seven black peppers should be finely pounded in a pestle and given to the patient of cholera. It allays thirst and restlessness and the patient feels better. It also lessens vomiting and diarrhea immediately. An addition to little sugar to the recipe will increase its effectiveness. Urinary System Disorders :- Onions are highly beneficial in the treatment 0f urinary system disorders. For burning sensation in urine, six grams of onion should be boiled in 500 ml. of water. It should be removed from the fire when half the water has evaporated. It should then be strained, allowed to cool and given to the patient as a drink. It will relieve the burning sensation in urine. Onion rubbed in water and mixed with 60 grams of sugar will be useful in retention of urine. It will bring about free urination within a short time. Bleeding Piles :- Onions are valuable in bleeding piles. About 30 grams of onions should be finely rubbed in water and 60 grams or Sugar added to it. It should be taken twice daily by

the patient. It will bring relief within a few days. A multi-faceted heart-blood medicine Taking 12 gms of onion juice mixed with the same quantity of honey for 21 days increases virility. Boosts beneficial HDL cholesterol Thins the blood Eating onion helps to clear phlegm from the throat and mouth. Teeth becomes white, it sharpens the memory and strengthens the nerves. Lowers total blood cholesterol Retards blood clotting Regulates blood sugar Kills bacteria Drinking the mixed juice of onion and memordica charantia (karela) cures severe indigestion. Eating white onion with raw sugar and some turmeric powder daily in the morning and evening time cures jaundice. Giving onion with raw sugar to children help them to gain height. The onion after being crushed and boiled clears phlegm. One spoonfull of onion juice eliminates the worms in the stomach of children. Applying onion juice on the hair eliminates lice. K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 290 Medicinal Importance and Application Health benefits of Onion include substantial relief from number of diseases such as common cold, asthma, bacterial infections, respiratory problems, angina, and cough. Onions are also known to repel blood thirsty insects. In other words, you may say that onions are godsend gifts. Onions are known to possess curative value from ancient time. Even the World Health Organization confirms that onions are best for people with less appetite and those suffering from atherosclerosis. Health experts acknowledge the fact that onions do provide great respite to patients having chronic asthma, allergic bronchitis, common cough and cold syndrome.Health benefits of onion are available due to presence of sulphur compounds and quercetin, in traces of essential oils. These are very effective antioxidants that aid in neutralizing the free radicals present in the human body. Onions have been used from many centuries by human beings for medicinal purposes. Onion also contains mineral components such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, selenium and phosphorus. The antibacterial properties of onion teemed with antifungal uses have made it a household name. The onion plant can be grown on welldrained and moist soil. You can even grow them in your own backyard or garden and reap its health

benefits. They form an important part of culinary preparations. They are also known as companion plants, for other types of vegetables. Some of the valued health benefits of onions are as follows: Good Oral Health: Onions are often used to prevent tooth decay and oral infections. Chewing raw onions for 2 to 3 minutes could possibly kill all the germs present in the mouth area. Treatment for Heart Ailments: Onions aids in thinning of the blood, which in turn prevents the red blood cells from forming clumps. These blocks could lead to heart disorders or cardiovascular diseases. Glowing Skin: Onion juice mixed with honey or olive oil is said to be best treatment for acne condition. Treatment for Cough: Consuming equal mixture of onion juice and honey can relive sore throat and cough symptoms. Used as Insect Repellent: You can apply onion juice to reduce the pain caused due to honeybee bite. Fresh onion juice or paste can be used for external applications for insect bites and scorpion stings. Boost Sexual Drive: Onions are said to increase the urge for healthy sexual life. One table spoon of onion juice along with spoonful of ginger juice, taken trice a day can boost the libido and sex drive. Treatment of Anaemic Condition: Even anaemic conditions can be improved by eating onions along with jaggery and water. Relieves Stomach Ache: Onions have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that give relief to upset stomach and related gastro syndromes. Treating Urinary Disorders: For those suffering from burning sensation during urination, onions can provide considerable relief. The patient should drink water boiled with 6 to 7 gm of onion. Prevention of Cancer: Onions are rich in active compounds that successfully inhibit the development of cancerous cells. K. P. Sampath Kumar et al J. Chem. Pharm. Res., 2010, 2(1): 283-291 __________________________________________________________________________ ____ 291 Relieving Earache: A few drops of onion juice may actually prove immensely beneficial to individuals suffering from acute earache. The ringing sound in the ear may be cured by applying onion juice through cotton wool. According to Peace Health, onions have been useful for treating various human diseases such as tumours, persistent coughs and cold. Medicine practitioners consider this plant form as a perfect home remedy for relieving disease syndromes.Peace Health further states that onion consumption can help in prevention of stomach and breast cancer.

 Onions

Consist of Sulphur Rich Compounds- The medical studies reveal that these sulphur compounds stop biochemical chain formations that could possibly lead to an asthmatic condition. Onions facilitates the melting of phlegm in a patient suffering from severe cough. Fresh onion juices are said to be applied to patients who become unconscious, for bringing vigour and energy back into the patient. Conclusion Onions secrets a lot of phytoncids killing pathogenic microbes, this is why it is widely used as remedy for catarrhal diseases: flu, angina, suppurative lung inflammation, catarrh and cough. Onion is used for the treatment of bronchial asthma.Onion prevents from prostatic hypertrophy. Even in ancient Egypt onion decoction was considered an aphrodisiac.Onion prevents atherosclerotic plaques. Onions reduce blood coagulation, prevents atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. One onion bulb can have the same effect as cardio aspirin.This vegetable improves kidney function and absorbs nitrogen from blood. Onion also has an anticarcinogenic effect.It stimulates digestion and regulated bowels function removing active microorganisms. As wee see, onion is very beneficial to your health. Medical properties of onion exceed those in many drugs, which normally have side effects.Several parts of the plant have a place in traditional medicines. The seeds of onion relieve dental worms and urinary diseases. The stalks of onion are a source of Vitamin A, thiamin and ascorbic acid. They are used in both tender and mature stages.

--------------------------------------------------------------From mouth odour to teary eyes, the onion is a much maligned vegetable. But there are far more health benefits afforded by the onion than we know. The onion is amongst the oldest of all cultivated plants and has its origins in Central Asia. For over 4000 years, Central Asian, Egyptian and Indian traditional systems of medicine have recognized the medicinal properties of onion, which is why it forms an inseparable part of the diet in these countries. Along with garlic, leeks, chives, scallions, and shallots, onion is a member of the lily family and bears the scientific name Allium cepa. Today, onions are the world's second most important horticultural crop, with an annual retail value in the United States of more than $3 billion. In your garden or grocery shelf, onion is available in many forms red, green, yellow and white.Each of these types have a different flavour and differ in their pungency. Onions are rich in thiosulfinates, sulfides, sulfoxides, and other odoriferous sulfur compounds. The cysteine sulphoxides like allyl sulphoxide are responsible for the onion flavour and the eye-irritation that invariably occurs when one cuts an onion. The red colour of onion is due to anthocyanin while yellow due to quercetin.

A General Tonic : Keeps You Fighting Fit! In early America and China, wild onions were used as a treatment for cold, cough, asthma, angina and breathing problems. Today, the WHO recognizes the use of onion extracts in providing relief from asthma as well as ulcers, scars and loss of appetite [1]. Onions are carminative, melt the phlegm and oil extracted from them is volatile. Many cultures believe that onion juice rubbed all over the body, or given orally brings stamina and vitality. It's Cool, Dude! Onion is said to have a cooling effect on the body. Traditional wisdom recommends higher consumption of onion for people with more body heat, such as those suffering from skin eruptions. In villages of India, onion and jaggery in water is often taken to cure fatigue after a long walk under a hot sun. It also reduces thirst and the ill-effects of a sun-stroke. Antimicrobial : Kills Harmful Bugs The antibacterial results from interaction of sulphur compound S-propenylcysteine sulphoxide with sulphur (thiol) groups of microbial enzymes (such as trypsin and other proteases), leading to an inhibition of microbial growth [2,3]. Onion extract was found to inhibit Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that causes strep throat, tonsillitis, bacterial pneumonia, as well as other diseases [4]. Additionally, as they are rich in fructooligosaccharides, they promote growth of healthy bifidobacteria while suppressing potentially harmful bacteria in the colon. Cardio-Protective : It's Good for the Heart! Onions are a rich source of flavonoids, substances known to provide protection against cardiovascular disease.[5]. They possess substances with fibrinolytic activity and hence suppress platelet clumping, acting as natural anti-clotting agents. The sulphides present in onion is reported to lower blood lipids [6] and blood pressure [7,8]. Onions Fight Cancer Too! Onion extracts, rich in a variety of sulfides, has been shown to provide some protection against tumor growth [9]. Regions where onions are grown, mortality rates from stomach cancer are about one-half the average level. Studies have shown a high consumption of onions, garlic and other Allium herbs to be protective against stomach and colon cancer. Chinese with the highest intake of onions, garlic, and other Allium vegetables have a risk of stomach cancer 40 percent less than those with the lowest intake. It was also found that shallots and Western Yellow and pungent yellow onion varieties are particularly effective against liver cancer cells, while pungent yellow and Western Yellow varieties have the greatest effect on colon cancer cells. Recent studies have also proved the usefulness of onions in preventing osteoporosis[10]. As scientific research progresses, more and more uses of this wonder bulb will emerge. Its time we quit associated the onion with mouth odour and tears and gave its due to this truly unique plant. Jul 25, 2009Jitesh Iyer http://suite101.com/article/medicinal-properties-of-onion-a134453

Read more at Suite101: Medicinal Properties of Onion: This Humble Bulb Deserves Far More Respect Than It Currently Gets! | Suite101.com http://suite101.com/article/medicinalproperties-of-onion-a134453#ixzz27rPcGsaW Read more at Suite101: Medicinal Properties of Onion: This Humble Bulb Deserves Far More Respect Than It Currently Gets! | Suite101.com http://suite101.com/article/medicinalproperties-of-onion-a134453#ixzz27rPSeJbg Read more at Suite101: Medicinal Properties of Onion: This Humble Bulb Deserves Far More Respect Than It Currently Gets! | Suite101.com http://suite101.com/article/medicinalproperties-of-onion-a134453#ixzz27rPMbykT Read more at Suite101: Medicinal Properties of Onion: This Humble Bulb Deserves Far More Respect Than It Currently Gets! | Suite101.com http://suite101.com/article/medicinalproperties-of-onion-a134453#ixzz27rPFlaHA