Dr. Mantap

Onion General Information
Ancient Greek historical accounts show the Onion was so popular that at one time, nine tons of gold was used to buy Onions to feed the builders of the pyramids. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a charm against evil spirits and the plague. Bunches of Onions were hung on doors to ward off the plague, typhoid, and cholera as well. Ancient folk healers believed Onion juice prevented infection. The sulfur content in Onions gives this plant its strong aroma and sharp flavor. In folk medicine, a half Onion was placed by the bedside in a sickroom to ward off germs. Scientific studies found that Onion does in fact, draw bacteria from the atmosphere. It was also found that the sulfur content in Onions is effective against bacillus subtilis, salmonella typhi, pseudomonas aeroginosa, and E. coli. This plant is rich in vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), and C, and has diuretic, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, decongestant, diaphoretic, anti-microbial, anti-asthmatic, expectorant, anti-rheumatic, and tonic properties.
Onion Uses & Scientific Evidence For
Onion is thought to reduce blood pressure and improve circulation. Onion is taken for colds, flu, and coughs. It can help ward off angina, arteriosclerosis, and heart attack. It also works well for preventing oral infection and tooth decay. Externally, warmed Onion juice in the ear can soothe earaches and a baked Onion poultice works for draining pus from sores.

Placing a poultice on the chest relieves congestion, abscesses, and boils. Some modern herbalists use Onion juice to remove warts and prevent acne, and an Onion syrup works well as an expectorant. Onion is also thought to be an aphrodisiac and a hair tonic for stimulating growth. Sliced, raw Onions work well in soothing bee stings, insect bites, hives, or nettle rash. Steam inhalation with hot water and raw Onions relieves sinus congestion caused by colds.
Onion Dosage Information
Onion comes in various forms and is an ingredient in many products. For soothing sore throats and coughs, use 2 Onions and 2 tablespoons honey, steeped overnight at room temperature. Steeping 4 medium-sized hot Onions in 1 liter or pint of hot water for 2 or 3 hours works as an infusion for treating colds, congestion, coughs, and bronchitis. Simmer 3 Onions in ¾ cup of water for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain and ad honey for relieving congestion. Tea made from boiled Onion skins are used to improve poor circulation, and works especially well in cases of gout. For other formulations and products, read and follow product label directions.
Onion Safety & Interaction Information
Onions are generally regarded as safe; however, this vegetable can cause digestive upset in some people if too many are eaten raw at one time.