I really should pay keener attention and take more seriously and frequently the advice of people who obviously know way more than I do. So many times, I have been told that onions (yellow, red, white and etc)are best eaten raw (and regularly). I once watched, intrigued and in total awe, as a man peeled, then proceeded to munch upon a huge yellow onion bulb as if was an apple or some sort of tasty fruit. To counter that though, I've heard horror stories from those whose stomachs could find no agreement with consuming raw onions.  These people complained that the onion made them 'gassy' and  gave them indigestion.

I have yet to let a bit of raw onion cross these lips. And, this is a crying shame- considering all the other ghastly things I’ve imbibed or eaten in the name of “bush medicine exploration”.

It’s not that I don’t respect the onion.  I grew up with an understanding that onions strengthened one’s immune system and was a sure way to avoid falling victim to the flu/ colds every other day. Some recommend drinking onion juice- extracted from grated onions. Others recommend just eating raw or barely cooked onions on the regular.  Onion juice/soup is also recommended if the cold/flu is already upon you.  Some even suggest a cough syrup of sorts made with 1 teaspoon of onion juice and 1 teaspoon honey to be taken several times a day to provide relief from congestion and other cold symptoms.

Another thing I understood from a very tender age was that onions/onion juice does wonders for the kidneys, lowers/reduces cholesterol, and helps to improve circulation. In addition, onion soup was always being suggested as a remedy for gas and indigestion. And, onions- raw/cooked- was also held in high regard as a remedy for high blood pressure.  In fact, I remember the onion was one of those plants which got a lot more respect, compared to prescribed medications, from the elderly people in my village who suffered from hypertension.

I also remember people chewing, quite religiously, upon raw onion to avoid a run-in with tooth decay. And, when the chewers did find themselves in the way of toothache/decay, they turned to the same method- chewing of onion- for rescue from the pain. Of course, sometimes, the ache/decay made chewing difficult/impossible. Then, they’d cut a tiny piece of onion and place it on or as close to the ailing spot as possible- replacing it if necessary. I remember the onion chewers quite well, because the pain would force them into feverish promises to see a dentist first thing in the morning. But, once the onion did its job, they’d forget all about the dentist until the next time. It was a  most vicious cycle.

I’ve also heard of some people using onion juice to bring them relief from an earache. This involved either making a warm onion compress and fastening it to the aching ear or dropping a few drops of warm onion juice into the ear.  This, like consuming raw onions is a remedy I have yet try. Maybe, I'm just a tad bit squeamish about dropping anything into my ear.

Disclaimer:

The contents of this page are meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. Statements published here ought not to be taken as expert medical advice designed to treat/cure any diseases or health related conditions. Please talk to your doctor or any qualified healthcare professional if you need medical advice (Believe me, WE at RE:BELLE WOULD!)

The Health Benefits of Onion: