A BARGAIN kitchen essential could be the secret to banishing colds and sooth sore throats this winter – and it’ll cost you less than £1.
The trick is simple – slice open an onion, peel it, and place it in a room where people spend the most time.
2
The idea isn’t new, onions have been used as a natural remedy since the 16th century.
They’re loaded with antioxidants, flavonoids and quercetin, a plant compound believed to fight infection, reduce inflammation and even lower cholesterol.
Supporters say onions can loosen stubborn mucus, act like a natural antibiotic and even help the body clear toxins.
Some claim that when left in a sick room, onions “soak up” bacteria and viruses from the air, making it easier for the poorly person to recover.
“The theory is that if you put an onion in a room with someone who is sick, the onion will absorb the bacteria, toxins, etc, and the person will feel better,” one health blogger said.
“Cutting open an onion and sticking it on my nightstand seems rather normal these days.”
Fans also use onions in other ways.
Onion poultices, made by gently warming chopped onion and wrapping it in cloth, are said to soothe coughs, colds and sinus infections.
Another popular method is sliding slices into socks before bed.
Believers say the onions draw out toxins through the soles of the feet overnight.
In Chinese medicine, the feet are seen as gateways to the body’s organs, and the idea is that the onion’s compounds work their magic while you sleep.
White onions are thought to work best, but yellow ones can do the trick if that’s what you have to hand.
Experts do warn never to eat onions that have been sitting out, as they absorb everything from the air.
Some fans even say leaving half an onion in the fridge can absorb smells and bacteria, though most people stick to using them during winter flu season.
Top five tips to treating your cough without powering through:
1. Make sure you’re drinking lots of water.
2. Have some hot drinks, with added honey and lemon, to soothe your throat (however, this is not suitable for children under one years old).
3. Get plenty of rest and stay at home if you’re feeling too unwell to do daily activities.
4. If you’re experiencing a continuous cough that’s proving hard to shift, pick up an effective cough remedy.
5. If you’re experiencing any kind of pain or high temperature, consider taking a painkiller – speak to a pharmacist if there is any concern.
2
