Did you know that onions belong to the garlic family and share many of its incredible health benefits? Often overlooked, the onion is a versatile vegetable, forming the foundation of countless salads, sauces, and dishes.
It can be enjoyed raw or cooked, each offering its own unique flavor and nutritional properties.
While onions are an essential ingredient in kitchens worldwide, their peels are usually discarded. However, these peels are packed with surprising health benefits that can transform your wellness routine.
Let’s explore why you should start incorporating onion peels into your life instead of throwing them away.
A Brief History of Onions
Onions have a fascinating history. The Egyptians revered them as a symbol of eternal life due to their layered structure, which they likened to the stages of existence.
Over 5,000 years ago, the Chinese and Sumerians also used onions, and they have likely been a part of human diets since prehistoric times.
Onions are rich in dietary fiber, flavonoids, and antioxidants, but today, we’ll focus on the health benefits of onion peels, a part of the vegetable that is often ignored.
5 Amazing Uses and Benefits of Onion Peels
1. Boosts the Immune System
Traditional medicine recognizes onion peels as a natural remedy for strengthening the immune system.
- How to Use: Make an infusion by steeping dried and ground onion peels in hot water. Drink this regularly to support your body’s defenses.
2. Treats Skin Rashes
Onion peels can help alleviate various skin conditions, including acne, warts, dermatitis, and fungal infections.
- How to Use: Mix ground onion peels with petroleum jelly or coconut oil to create a topical ointment. Apply to the affected area for soothing relief.
3. Cleanses the Kidneys
Onion peels are an excellent natural remedy for detoxifying the kidneys and bladder.
- How to Use: Grind onion peels and add 3 teaspoons to 2 cups of boiling water. Let it steep for 30 minutes. Drink 3 tablespoons of this tea throughout the day.
4. Strengthens Hair
For silky, shiny, and strong hair, onion peel water can be a game-changer.
- How to Use: Boil onion peels in water to create a rinse. Use it as the final rinse after shampooing your hair. Over time, you’ll notice improved hair strength and luster.
5. Relieves Colds and Bronchitis
Like the onion itself, its peels have properties that can help alleviate colds, bronchitis, and coughs.
How to Use:
- Chop onion peels to get 4 tablespoons and place them in boiling water. Inhale the steam for 5 minutes to clear airways.
- Alternatively, soak a compress in this water and apply it to the chest to loosen mucus.
Additional Benefits of Onion Peel Tea
Onion peel tea is a powerhouse of health benefits, including:
- Fighting obesity
- Preventing colon cancer
- Supporting gastrointestinal health
- Reducing cardiovascular disease risks
- Managing type 2 diabetes
- Preventing arterial clogging
- Lowering hypertension
- Combating free radicals with antioxidant properties
- Acting as an antibacterial and antifungal agent
Precautions
While onion peels offer many health benefits, certain groups should avoid them:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not consume onion peels.
- Consult a healthcare provider before using onion peels, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.
Onion peels are more than just waste – they’re a treasure trove of health benefits. From boosting immunity to improving hair health and detoxifying the kidneys, these humble peels deserve a place in your wellness routine.
Instead of tossing them away, try these simple remedies to unlock their potential and improve your overall health.
Start incorporating onion peels into your life today and experience their incredible benefits firsthand!
