Onion

The onion, also known as Pyaaz, has a strong pungent aroma and is utilised in a variety of ways to flavour food.^(HR/1)

Onions come in a variety of colours and sizes, including white, red, and spring onions, which can be eaten fresh in salads. When onions are chopped, a volatile, sulphur-rich oil is released, causing watering eyes. It causes tears to be produced by activating the tear glands in our eyes. During the summer, incorporating raw onions into your diet is the most effective approach to avoid heat stroke. Onions also aid in the management of different digestive diseases by easing bowel motions. Onion’s aphrodisiac properties, according to Ayurveda, may assist improve erection time.Due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) characteristics, external application of onion juice, paste, or oil helps alleviate excessive dryness, reduces hair fall, and promotes hair growth. It’s important to remember that eating too much onion might create digestive issues, especially in people who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Onion is also known as :- Allium cepa, Plandu, Yevnesth, Sukand, Piyaaz, Pyaj, Piyas, Kando, Nirulli, Dungali, Ullipaya, Vengayam, Venkayam, Peyaj, Ganda, Piyaz, Kanda, Bawang, Cuvannulli, Garden Onion, Common Onion, Besala

Onion is obtained from :- Plant

Uses and benefits of Onion:-

As per several scientific studies, uses and benefits of Onion (Allium cepa) are mentioned as per below^(HR/2)

• Diabetes mellitus (Type 1 & Type 2) : Onion may help with diabetes management. The anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects of onions are well-known. It enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Onion helps to prevent a spike in blood glucose levels after a meal. Onion contains quercetin, which fights free radicals and lowers the risk of diabetes problems.
  Diabetes, also known as Madhumeha, is caused by a Vata imbalance and poor digestion. Impaired digestion causes an accumulation of Ama (toxic waste left in the body as a result of faulty digestion) in the pancreatic cells, impairing insulin activity. Onion soothes an irritated Vata and aids digestion. It boosts metabolism and keeps insulin levels in check. This aids in the control of blood glucose levels.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure) : Onion may aid in the treatment of high blood pressure. Onion is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-hypertensive. Onion contains quercetin, which lowers blood pressure and protects blood vessels from free radical damage. As a result, Onion contains heart-protective properties.
• Diarrhea : In Ayurveda, diarrhoea is referred to as Atisar. It is caused by poor nutrition, contaminated water, pollutants, mental tension, and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All of these variables contribute to the aggravation of Vata. This worsened Vata draws fluid into the gut from numerous body tissues and mixes it with the excrement. This causes loose, watery bowel movements or diarrhoea. Onion is useful for balancing inflamed Vata, controlling the frequency of motion, and resolving stomach trouble. Onion, on the other hand, is difficult to digest because to its Guru (heavy) nature, thus it should be used sparingly.
• Prostate cancer : The onion may help to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Onion contains anticancer and anti-inflammatory compounds such as quercetin, apigenin, and fisetin. It stops cancer cells from multiplying and growing. It also causes cancer cells to die by inducing apoptosis. Onion eating helps to keep the prostate in check and reduces the chance of prostate cancer.
• Asthma : Asthma sufferers may benefit from onions. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antihistaminic qualities are all found in onions. Onion contains quercetin, which helps to alleviate inflammation and allergies.
  Onion can help reduce asthma symptoms and provide relief from shortness of breath. The main doshas associated in asthma, according to Ayurveda, are Vata and Kapha. In the lungs, vitiated ‘Vata’ joins with disturbed ‘Kapha dosha,’ obstructing the respiratory path. Breathing becomes difficult as a result of this. Swas Roga is the name for this disorder (Asthma). Onion is good for calming Vata and removing extra mucous from the lungs. Asthma symptoms are relieved as a result of this.
• Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries) : The onion may be useful in the treatment of atherosclerosis. Onion possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypolipidemic effects. Onion helps to lessen harmful cholesterol levels. Onion protects blood arteries by reducing the damage caused by lipid peroxidation.
• Cough : In Ayurveda, cough is referred to as Kapha problem and is caused by mucus buildup in the respiratory tract. Because it cleanses collected mucus from the lungs, onions aid to relieve cough when used after fried with Ghee. Tips: 1. Take a couple of raw onions and slice them in half. 2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into small chunks. 3. Fry the onion in 1/2 teaspoon of ghee. 4. Eat it with your meals to help you get rid of your cough.
• Appetite stimulant : Anorexia, often known as loss of appetite, is characterised by a lack of desire to eat even when one is hungry. Anorexia is called as Aruchi in Ayurveda, and it is caused by the accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). Ama causes anorexia by blocking the body’s gastrointestinal pathways. Eating onion improves Agni (digestive) and decreases Ama, which is the primary cause of appetite loss. Due to its Anushna (not very hot) feature, this is the case.
• Hair loss : Because of their high sulphur concentration, onions can help prevent hair loss. It aids in the synthesis of proteins, particularly keratin, by providing more sulphur (the protein component of hair). Onion also encourages hair growth by promoting collagen synthesis. Onion juice applied to the scalp can assist improve blood circulation to the hair follicles and prevent hair loss.
  “When applied to the scalp, onion or onion juice helps to prevent hair fall and promote hair growth. This is owing to the fact that hair loss is mostly caused by an irritated Vata dosha in the body. Onion helps to prevent hair loss by regulating the Vata dosha. It also encourages fresh hair development and eliminates dryness. This is related to the qualities of Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing). Tips: 2. Measure out 2 teaspoons onion juice. 2. Mix in 2 tbsp. coconut oil or honey. 3. Add 5 drops of tea tree oil to the mixture. 4. Blend everything together until it’s completely smooth. 5. Massage the product into the scalp for a few minutes. 6. Allow 30-60 minutes for the mixture to rest. 7. Use a gentle shampoo to wash your hair. 8. Do this a few times more to keep hair from falling out.

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Precautions to be taken while using Onion:-

As per several scientific studies, below precautions should to be taken while taking Onion (Allium cepa)^(HR/3)

• Sulfur compounds present in Onion have potential antithrombotic activity. Patients who have to undergo surgery are advised to avoid consuming Onion as it can increase the risk of excessive bleeding.
• Although Onion is safe if taken in food amount, Onion supplements might cause thinning of blood. So it advisable to take Onion supplements only after consulting a doctor if you are taking anticoagulants or blood thinners.
• Onion contains indigestible carbohydrates that can contribute to various digestive problems. People prone to IBS are advised to avoid consuming raw Onion in excess.

Special precautions to be taken while taking Onion:-

As per several scientific studies, below special precautions should to be taken while taking Onion (Allium cepa)^(HR/4)

• Breastfeeding : Onion is safe to eat in little doses. However, before taking Onion supplements while breastfeeding, you should see your doctor.
• Moderate Medicine Interaction : 1. Onion has the potential to interact with CNS medications. As a result, before using Onion or Onion supplements with CNS medicines, talk to your doctor. 2. Onion may help to prevent blood clots. As a result, before using Onion or Onion supplements with anticoagulants/antiplatelet medicines, talk to your doctor.
• Patients with diabetes : Onions may help to reduce blood sugar levels. As a result, monitoring blood glucose levels while taking Onion supplements and anti-diabetic medications is recommended. Onion, on the other hand, is safe to eat in little doses.
• Patients with heart disease : Onions have been shown to reduce blood pressure. As a result, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your blood pressure when taking Onion supplements and antihypertensive medications. Onion, on the other hand, is safe to eat in little doses.
• Pregnancy : Onion is safe to eat in little doses. However, before consuming Onion supplements while pregnant, you should see your doctor.
• Allergy : To test for probable allergic responses, apply onion extract gel or juice to a small area first.

How to take Onion:-

As per several scientific studies, Onion (Allium cepa) can be taken into the methods mentioned as per below^(HR/5)

• Onion Capsule : Take one to two Onion capsules. Swallow it with water after taking lunch and also supper.
• Onion Powder : Take one fourth to half teaspoon Onion powder. Mix with water or honey and have it after lunch and also dinner.
• Onion Salad : Peel and also slice the Onion. Slice cucumbers and tomatoes. Add Onions, cucumbers and tomatoes together. Add couple of declines of lemon juice based on your taste. Store in refrigerator for a couple of minutes. Garnish with coriander and black pepper prior to offering.
• Onion Juice : Wash and peel off two to three Onions. Chop them finely. Put the finely cut Onion in a juicer or blender. Sieve the mixed Onion making use of a muslin fabric to strain its juice. Store the Onion juice in a glass containerTake two to three teaspoon two times a day after watering down in water for far better digestion.
• Onion Oil : Take two to five drops of Onion oil or per your requirement. Apply on the scalp once prior to sleeping at night. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo the following morning. Repeat this as soon as a week to eliminate dandruff and for promoting hair development.
• Onion Juice for skin : Laundry and peel two to three Onions. Chop them finely. Put the finely chopped Onion in a juicer or blender. Sieve the combined Onion making use of a muslin cloth/cheesecloth to stress its juice. Store the Onion juice in a glass container. Dilute the juice with water before utilizing.
• Onion Juice for hair growth : Take two teaspoons Onion juice. Add two teaspoons of coconut oil or honey. Add 5 drops of tea tree oil. Make a smooth blend. Apply on the scalp as well as massage for a couple of minutesLeave the mixture on for concerning three0 minutes. Wash your hair with a light hair shampoo.

How much Onion should be taken:-

As per several scientific studies, Onion (Allium cepa) should be taken into the amounts mentioned as per below^(HR/6)

• Onion Capsule : One to two capsules twice a day.
• Onion Powder : One fourth to half teaspoon twice a day.
• Onion Oil : Two to five drops or as per your requirement.

Side effects of Onion:-

As per several scientific studies, below side effects need to be taken into consideration while taking Onion (Allium cepa)^(HR/7)

• Eye irritation
• Skin rash

Questions asked frequently Related to the Onion:-

Question. How to make Onion powder at home?

Answer. 1. Clean the onions by washing and peeling them. 2. Chop them finely and put them out on a baking dish. 3. Bake them at 150°C for 30 minutes, then set aside to cool. 4. To form powder, crush them by hand or with a mortar and pestle. 5. Keep the onion powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry location (freeze any leftovers).

Question. What are the ways to eat Onion?

Answer. Onions can be consumed raw, fried, roasted, baked, boiled, grilled, or powdered. Raw onion can be eaten alone or as part of a salad. Onions can be utilised in a variety of recipes.

Question. How to get rid of bad breath due to Onion?

Answer. “Tips: 1. Eat an apple, lettuce, or mint: Apples help to eliminate odour by breaking down odor-causing chemicals. Lettuce has a refreshing flavour and deodorises Onion breath, while the crisp aroma of mint conceals the harsh Onion odour, leaving the mouth refreshed. 2. Drink milk: Milk helps to deodorise Onion breath by reducing the number of odour-causing chemicals. 3. Brush and floss after meals: Bacteria and odor-causing substances can collect in the gum line and teeth. Plaque may form as a result of this. Brushing and flossing after meals can help to eliminate bad breath produced by onions. 4. Lemon: Lemons are high in citric acid, which can help to neutralise the odour of onions. It also has antimicrobial properties and can eliminate microorganisms that cause odours. a. Squeeze 1 tablespoon of lemon juice into a small bowl. b. Mix it thoroughly with a cup of water. c. Rinse your mouth 2-3 times with this lemon water till the foul odour is gone. 5. Apple cider vinegar, diluted: The presence of pectin in apple cider vinegar aids the growth of beneficial microorganisms. It aids in the elimination of bad breath caused by onions. a. Mix 1-2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. b. In a cup of water, thoroughly mix it. c. After meals, drink it or rinse your mouth with it for 10-15 seconds. 6. Sugar: Sugar granules aid in the removal of odour-causing onion metabolites as well as bacteria that cause bad breath. Before chewing, put a few sugar granules in your mouth for a few seconds.”

Question. Are Onions high in carbohydrates?

Answer. Onions, both raw and cooked, have a carbohydrate content of 9-10%. Simple sugars including glucose, fructose, and sucrose, as well as fibres, make up the majority of the carbohydrates in onions. The total digestible carbohydrate content of 100 grammes of onion is 7.6 grammes, with 9.3 grammes of carbohydrates and 1.7 grammes of fibre.

Question. What are the dangers of eating large quantities of Onions every day?

Answer. It is thought to be harmful to consume big amounts of onion on a daily basis. Onion contains carbs that may cause gas difficulties. They have no effect on cholesterol levels and raise body mass index. Onions can cause nausea and vomiting in people who are intolerant to them.

Excessive onion consumption may raise Pitta and Kapha dosha levels in the body, aggravating issues such as gastritis, nausea, and vomiting associated with these doshas.

Question. Can Onion cause upset stomach?

Answer. Yes, eating too much onion can make indigestion symptoms worse, such as an upset stomach.

Yes, onions can cause stomach distress if consumed in big quantities. This is due to Onion’s Guru (heavy) nature, which makes it difficult to digest. Due to its Ushna (hot) potency, it may also create a burning sensation in the stomach.

Question. Why does chopping an Onion make you cry?

Answer. When an onion is chopped, a gas called lachrymatory factor is released. This gas works as an irritant in the eyes, causing a stinging sensation. Tears are generated in the eyes to eliminate the irritation.

Because of its Tikshna (strong) nature, chopping an onion can make you cry. It causes tears by irritating the lacrimal glands (tear glands).

Question. Is it harmful to eat Onion at night?

Answer. No, you can eat onion at night, but if you have heartburn or acid reflux, it may aggravate your condition. Due to its Tikshna (sharp) and Ushna (hot) qualities, this is the case. As a result, it’s best to avoid onions, especially raw onions, for a few hours before bedtime.

Question. Is Onion good for liver?

Answer. Yes, onion can help with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease management. Onion flavonoids contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The level of glucose, lipids, cholesterol, and liver enzymes in the blood is also controlled by onions. For the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, onion consumption should be accompanied with a healthy diet.

Question. Can Onion be used in tuberculosis?

Answer. Yes, onion is effective in the treatment of tuberculosis. The antitubercular and antibacterial properties of onions are well-known. Onion aids in the prevention of tuberculosis by inhibiting the growth of tuberculosis-causing microorganisms.

Question. Do Onions help increase testosterone level in men?

Answer. Yes, onions can help males increase their levels of the sex hormone testosterone through a variety of processes. Some of the possible mechanisms include Onion’s strong antioxidant properties, which aid in the fight against free radicals in the testes and prevent cell damage, as well as improving insulin resistance and increasing the production of a hormone called luteinizing hormone, which stimulates testosterone production.

Onion, in fact, aids in the control of testosterone levels. In men, an imbalance in the Vata dosha causes hormonal imbalances. Onion’s Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property aids in the management of this condition and improves the reproductive system’s function.

Question. What are the benefits of Onion for a male?

Answer. Onion juice aids in increasing the body’s antioxidant concentration, which fights free radicals. This also aids in the production of more sperm. It also acts as an aphrodisiac, increasing sexual desire.

Because of its Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) function, onion is good to males because it improves sperm quality and reduces sexual weakness.

Question. What are the benefits of Onion tea?

Answer. Onion tea has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It combats free radicals while also reducing inflammation in the affected area. Fever, headaches, diarrhoea, and cholera are all prevented by this.

Tea made from onions can also be eaten. It aids in the reduction of edoema or inflammation in any part of the body. An imbalance of Vata or Pitta dosha causes these symptoms. Its Shothhar (anti-inflammatory) property aids in the management of certain illnesses. This aids in the reduction of swelling or inflammation, resulting in alleviation.

Question. What are the benefits of eating raw Onions?

Answer. Consumption of raw onions aids in the treatment of dental problems. It prevents bacteria from growing and kills germs in the mouth. When you have a toothache, put a little piece of onion in your mouth to assist relieve the pain.

Because of its Vata-balancing properties, raw onion can aid with tooth and gum discomfort and swelling. Its Balya (strength provider) property aids in the management of a person’s entire health. Tips 1. Prepare the onion by peeling and slicing it. 2. Cut cucumbers and tomatoes into thin slices. 3. Combine the onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes in a mixing bowl. 4. Taste and add a few drops of lemon juice if desired. 5. Set aside for a few minutes in the refrigerator. 6. Before serving, garnish with coriander and black pepper.

Question. What benefits can I get from drinking Onion juice?

Answer. Because of its expectorant properties, onion juice aids in the prevention of cough. It aids in the expulsion of sputum from the airways by promoting sputum secretion. This facilitates effortless breathing. It can also be used to treat colds and influenza. Tips: 1. Combine equal parts onion juice and honey in a mixing bowl. 2. Take 3-4 teaspoons of this combination three times a day.

Question. How does Onion help in hair growth?

Answer. Onion has been shown to aid hair development. The onion is a good source of sulphur in the diet. It aids in the synthesis of proteins, particularly keratin, by providing more sulphur (protein component of hair). Onion also encourages hair growth by promoting collagen synthesis. Applying onion juice to the scalp can help encourage hair growth by increasing blood circulation to the hair follicles.

Hair loss is caused by an increased Vata dosha in the body, according to Ayurveda. Onion reduces hair loss and improves hair growth by balancing Vata Dosha.

Question. What are the benefits of applying onion juice ?

Answer. Because of its antibacterial and antifungal qualities, onion juice is used to prevent bacterial and fungal infections when administered externally. It can be used to treat wounds and bites on the skin. Onion juice applied to the scalp promotes hair development as well. When placed in the ear, warm onion juice also relieves earache.

Applying onion juice to the eyes will aid with eye pain, inflammation, and insect bites that are caused by an imbalanced Vata dosha. This is due to Onion juice’s Ropana (healing) and Vata balancing capabilities. Tips 1. Peel and wash 2-3 onions 2. Finely chop them. 3. In a juicer or blender, finely chop the onion. 4. Strain the juice from the pureed onion using a muslin cloth/cheesecloth. 5. Pour the onion juice into a glass jar and keep it there. 6. Before using, dilute the juice with water.

Answer. HR