The Science Behind Using Onions for Cough Relief

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Cough Relief

Countless individuals across the globe have seen the TikTok video promoting onion water for colds and flu. This video states that the pungent concoction will naturally fight off these illnesses and help the body heal faster. It combats coughing, congestion, and other symptoms frequently seen with these illnesses. 

Countless illnesses are prevalent right now, and people are willing to try anything to get much-needed relief. When the illness impacts their respiratory system, they may turn to onions for cough relief. What is onion water, will it help, and are there other ways onions may be used to treat the symptoms of common respiratory illnesses?

What is Onion Water?

Onion water is a drink made using cut-up raw onions and filtered water. A person combines the raw onions cut into small chunks into a jar or bowl and covers them with filtered water. They then let this concoction sit in the refrigerator overnight and drink it when they get up.

People who have tried the drink say it helps with coughing and congestion. They feel they heal quicker when they drink onion water. They aren’t alone, as onions have been used to cure many ailments over the years.

Other Options

Onion water is only one way this common food can treat different illnesses. For example, people might steep an onion in hot water to create a tea rather than a cold drink. When onion water is boiled with sugar, it becomes a syrup that can be used on foods, or it might even be made into onion honey. Some people chop up a bowl of onions and set it next to their heads when sleeping to relieve coughing and congestion.

Does Onion Water Work?

People who have tried using onion water to treat their cold and flu symptoms say it provides much-needed relief. Scientists have yet to confirm this, but that doesn’t mean a person has anything to lose by trying it. Why might onions be of benefit to a person?

Onions are known for their strong odor. When a person’s defense system smells something pungent, it creates loose mucus. The nose and eyes begin running, and a person may cry. The odor may also make the individual cough and help clear some mucus. More research needs to be done to see if onions will benefit a person and how much they need to use to see the benefits. Until then, people may use onions safely at home to see if they obtain much-needed relief. Many people will find they do. The only people who should not try this remedy are those who are allergic to onions.

The Dangers of Onion Water

While most people can safely drink onion water, consuming large amounts of raw onions can upset the stomach or cause heartburn. Allowing onions to contact the skin frequently can also irritate or worsen eczema in those with this condition. However, parents may want to speak to their pediatrician before giving onions to their children.

Anyone who tries onion water may also want to look at other remedies they can use to help loosen mucus and relieve their breathing. Nasal saline drops or sprays are one option. Humidifiers and cool mist vaporizers moisturize the air and may also help reduce congestion and cough. Honey naturally suppresses a cough and coats a sore throat but should never be used in children under one year of age.

Anyone suffering from a cold or flu should get plenty of sleep and remain hydrated. Fluids will benefit any individual when they are sick, including those who choose to drink onion water. However, the best way to handle a cold or flu is to initially work to prevent the illness. Avoid sick people when possible, and wash the hands frequently. A flu shot is also of help, and a mask should be worn in crowded spaces where others may be ill. People who take these steps often find they don’t need to worry about drinking onion water as frequently because they rarely get sick.

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