Onions aren’t just a kitchen staple used to spice up your meals—they’re an ancient, natural powerhouse of healing. Whether raw, sautéed, or juiced, onions (especially red ones) offer an impressive list of benefits that touch everything from your skin to your immune system—and even your thyroid.
Onions: Nature’s Cleanser
- Purify the Blood
Red onions contain phosphoric acid, which may help flush out toxins, boost circulation, and reduce fatigue. - Cleanse the Skin
With natural antibacterial and sulfur compounds, raw onion juice can soothe acne, irritation, and blemishes. - Kill Harmful Bacteria
Onions have strong antimicrobial powers, helping fight bacteria from the inside out—for both skin and immunity.
The Red Onion Thyroid Remedy
One of the most fascinating alternative uses of red onions comes from Dr. Igor Knjazkin, a physician from St. Petersburg, who developed a simple yet powerful routine aimed at supporting thyroid function.
How to Use Red Onions for Thyroid Support:
- Before going to sleep, cut a fresh red onion in half.
- Let it sit for a moment so the juices start to come out
- Then, gently rub the cut side over your neck, focusing on the thyroid area.
- Avoid rinsing it off—leave the juice on overnight.
- For extra detox support, you can also slip a thin slice of onion into your socks before bed. This old-fashioned remedy is believed to help draw out toxins through the soles of your feet.
Why red onions? They’re especially rich in sulfur compounds, quercetin, and antioxidants—all of which are beneficial for inflammation and hormone regulation.
More Science-Backed Health Benefits of Red Onions
Red onions are packed with nutrients that support your whole body:
- Quercetin: A flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. It helps reduce blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, and fight free radicals.
- Chromium: A trace mineral that plays a role in controlling blood sugar levels.
- Vitamin C: Important for immune health, collagen formation, and maintaining healthy skin.
- Prebiotics: Red onions contain inulin, a prebiotic fiber that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestion and immunity.
Raw Onions and Heart Health
Consuming raw onions in moderation has been associated with:
- Lower cholesterol
- Reduced chances of blood clots
- Better heart performance
- Lower risk of some chronic illnesses
They also aid liver detox and help the body get rid of harmful substances more effectively.
Do Onions Really Clean the Air?
Though mostly based on tradition, onions have long been used as a natural way to purify the air. During flu seasons, people often placed cut onions around their homes to absorb germs.
The belief is that onions pull toxins and bacteria from the air—a method still popular among holistic health followers. Scientific proof is limited, but it’s a safe and cheap practice. Worth a try!
Onions in Traditional Remedies
Across many cultures:
- Onions were worn as necklaces to prevent sickness.
- Onion juice treated ear infections, warts, and hair loss.
- Onion poultices were applied to wounds and insect bites.
These uses highlight onions’ natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Final Thoughts: Why Onions Matter
In a world full of costly health trends and synthetic supplements, simple natural options like onions can be surprisingly powerful.
Whether you want to:
- Support thyroid health
- Detox your body
- Improve skin glow
- Boost immunity
- Take care of your heart
- Or even freshen your air