ONION
Allium cepa

WHAT IS ONION?

Onion (scientific name: Allium cepa) belong to the Allium family of plants, which also includes chives, garlic, and leeks. These vegetables have characteristic pungent flavors and some medicinal properties.
Onions vary in size, shape, color, and flavor. The most common types are red, yellow, and white onions. The taste of these vegetables can range from sweet and juicy to sharp, spicy, and pungent, often depending on the season in which people grow and consume them.
It is common knowledge that chopping onions causes watery eyes. However, onions may also provide potential health benefits. These may include reducing the risk of several types of cancer, improving mood, and maintaining skin and hair health.

Onions contain antioxidants and compounds that fight inflammation, decrease triglycerides and reduce cholesterol levels — all of which may lower heart disease risk. Their potent anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce high blood pressure and protect against blood clots.
It cures cold, cough, high fever, sore throat and boosts immunity.
Research has shown that the nutrients in onions may strengthen gut health, reduce inflammation and enhance digestion. Onions’ antibacterial and antiviral properties help boost the immunity system to keep viruses from spreading throughout the body.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if onion is safe to use as medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid using onion in amounts larger than usual food amounts.
Bleeding disorder: Onion might slow blood clotting. There is concern that onion might increase the risk of bleeding when taken as a medicine. Don't use medicinal amounts of onion or onion extract if you have a bleeding disorder.
Cross-allergens: People with allergies to mugwort and celery might also be allergic to onion. Don't use medicinal amounts if you have these allergies.
Diabetes: Onion might lower blood sugar. If you have diabetes and use onion in medicinal amounts, check your blood sugar carefully.
Indigestion: People that experience indigestion often find that eating onion increases symptoms. Don't eat large amounts of onion if it increases your symptoms.
Surgery: Onion might slow blood clotting and lower blood sugar. In theory, onion might increase the risk for bleeding or interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgical procedures. Stop using onion as a medicine at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.