Onions are rich sources of folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and chromium. They contain antioxidants and possess the ability to improve digestion, lower the risk of cataracts, boost energy, combat cancer, strengthen the immune system, lower blood sugar level, alleviate ear ache, boost brain function, nourish the skin, and treat acne.
Onions are loaded with nutrients that are beneficial for our health, whether they are consumed raw or cooked. But do you know you can also consume onions in the form of their juice? Simply chop about 3 to 4 onions into pieces. Add the pieces to a juicer or blender and extract the juice. Transfer the paste to a container and you have your onion juice!
Health Benefits of Onion Juice
Let’s take a look at the amazing things onion juice can do for your health.
Boosts the Immune System
Selenium, a component present in onions, is why the juice can boost the immune system. It facilitates an immune response but also reduces excessive immune response. Immune cells that are deficient in selenium are vulnerable to more oxidation, making the production of protein and transportation of calcium difficult.
In addition, onion juice is effective for treating asthma and other respiratory issues. It stimulates and fortifies the excretory organs. The quercetin found in the juice combats inflammation and other allergies as well.
Improves Fertility
Due to the antioxidant activity of onions, the juice of the vegetable can boost testosterone levels and promote sperm health. Studies show that onion juice can improve libido by increasing serum testosterone levels.
Fights Cancer
Onions contain several anticancer compounds, including anthocyanins, organosulfur, and quercetin. According to some studies, these compounds help prevent several types of cancer. These studies also suggest that the stronger the flavor of an onion, the more potent it is for fighting cancer.
The quercetin in onion can also reduce the risk of brain and lung cancers. The fiber in onions, especially the red ones, can help lower the risk of colon cancer. They aid in the treatment and prevention of cancer by eliminating tumor cells.
Regulates Sleep and Improves Mood
While more research is required, preliminary studies show that the folate in onion juice can fight depression and improve mood. Folate helps to prevent the accumulation of homocysteine, a chemical that stops blood and other nutrients from getting to the brain. When homocysteine is produced in excess, it interferes with the production of a feel-good hormone called serotonin.
Folate also supports the production of norepinephrine and dopamine, which are hormones that help regulate sleep.
Treats Diabetes
Onion juice can help lower blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. Onions are low in calories and boost metabolism, which can help manage the symptoms of diabetes. Studies show that the consumption of onion juice can also be effective in lowering plasma glucose levels.
Boosts Vision
Onion juice contains antimicrobial properties that can help treat eye infections such as blepharitis and conjunctivitis. The juice of this veggie can also prevent cataracts and the growth of eye flora. Studies indicate that onion juice can have an inhibitory effect on the formation of selenite-induced cataract.
Improves Digestion
Onion juice can help improve digestion because of its rich fiber content. The fiber in the juice helps in keeping the body’s healthy bacteria on a normal level. The juice contains a soluble fiber called oligofructose which promotes the growth of good bacteria in the intestines.
Combats Inflammation
The quercetin in onion juice has proven to be effective in inhibiting histamines, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins–which are all known to lead to inflammation in osteoarthritis. Indeed, fresh onion juice can prevent chronic pain and inflammation.
The presence of manganese in onion juice helps to relieve colds and flu because it contains anti-inflammatory abilities. Onion juice consumption can also prevent bone disorders that are caused by inflammation. According to some studies, taking onion juice can enhance bone mineral density in postmenopausal women.
Treats Nail Fungus
The antifungal properties of onion juice can fight off Candida albicans, a pathogenic yeast that results in fungal infections. To effectively treat nail fungus, simply apply onion juice to the affected toenail using a cotton ball. You can also use tape or bandage to secure the cotton ball to the toenail. Leave the juice on for an hour and then wash it off with warm water. You can do this once weekly.
Enhances Hair Health
Onion juice contains sulfur that boosts the production of collagen which, in turn, enhances hair growth. According to a study, onion juice can boost hair growth and treat conditions like alopecia areata. Washing your hair with onion juice can stimulate hair growth.
Onion juice may also make your hair more radiant. The antimicrobial properties of the juice can help combat scalp infections and strengthen hair follicles as well.
Fights Acne
The antimicrobial and antifungal properties are effective for treating acne. In many studies, onion juice has proven to be a powerful treatment for acne. This juice can also improve the appearance of acne scar by reducing inflammation and redness. Onion juice may also be effective as a treatment option for fungal and bacterial infections.
To treat acne, simply apply onion juice to your face and leave it on for about 15 minutes. Wash your face with lukewarm water. However, do not let the juice get into your eyes. Also, ensure not to apply the juice on open wounds or blisters. People with sensitive skin should consult a doctor before using onion juice for treating acne.
Some people suggest that onion juice might also aid the treatment of psoriasis. But further research is needed on this.
Cures Ear Infections
Onion juice is effective for treating ear infections and earache. However, there is a need for more research in this regard. It is better to check with your doctor before using onion juice for this purpose.
Prevents Premature Aging
Some sources believe that the flavonoids and other antioxidant compounds present in onion juice can help prevent signs of premature aging like wrinkles and fine lines.
Due to its sulfur content, onion juice possesses anti-aging abilities that can boost the production of collagen and prevent premature aging.
Side Effects of Onion Juice
Evidently, onion juice can be beneficial for our health. However, there are side effects to take note of.
- Since there is not enough research on onion juice, it is advisable that pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers consume the juice in small amounts and with caution. Consult your doctor for more information before consuming onion juice.
- Onion juice lowers blood sugar levels. Therefore, for people who are already on diabetes medications, the juice can lower their blood sugar levels way too much. If you are diabetic, it is advisable to check with your medical doctor to adjust the juice dosage before consuming it.
- Onion juice may cause bleeding disorders as it slows down blood clotting. People who suffer from a bleeding disorder should not consume the juice. Patients are also advised to avoid onion juice two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
- Onion juice may aggravate indigestion. So, use the juice with caution as it can worsen the condition.
- The juice may cause skin allergies, especially with sensitive skin. It is advisable to do a patch test before applying the juice to your skin.