The Power of Onions When Sick

Onions have been used for centuries during illness because they contain compounds that support the body’s natural immune, respiratory, and detox pathways. They are also gentle, inexpensive, and easy to use when appetite is low, which is why they appear so often in traditional sickness remedies.

Onions are rich in sulfur-containing compounds, flavonoids, and quercetin, which have antimicrobial and immune-supportive properties. These compounds can help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and viruses, support immune cell function, and reduce oxidative stress during illness. Quercetin also has antihistamine-like and antiviral effects, which can be helpful during respiratory infections.

The sulfur compounds in onions act as natural expectorants, meaning they help thin and loosen mucus. This makes it easier to clear congestion from the chest and sinuses, which is why onions are commonly used for coughs, colds, and sinus pressure. Their mild anti-inflammatory effects may also help soothe irritated airways and reduce swelling during illness.

Traditionally, onions are used in a variety of ways when someone is sick. Onion syrup is made by slicing raw onion and covering it with honey, allowing it to sit for several hours before taking small amounts for cough support. Onion poultices, made by wrapping warm sliced onion in a cloth and placing it on the chest or feet, are used to promote circulation and warmth. Onion steam, created by adding sliced onion to hot water and inhaling the steam, is often used to support sinus drainage. Eating cooked onions in soups or broths is another gentle way to gain their benefits when digestion is sensitive.

Today, onions are still used because they are low-risk, accessible, and supportive rather than suppressive. While they do not replace medical care when it is needed, they can help support the body’s natural healing response, especially during early or mild illness.

Onions Poultice

Onion poultices are considered helpful for coughs and congestion because onions contain sulfur compounds and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and loosen mucus in the respiratory tract. When applied as a warm poultice to the chest or back, the heat can improve blood circulation and provide soothing relief, while the onion’s natural compounds may help ease congestion and support the body’s ability to fight infections.

1. Chop and steam or saute an onion in a bit of water for 5 minutes. Pour into a towel.

2. Fold up and apply to chest for 20 minutes

*make sure to let the poultice cool down enough so it’s still warm, but doesn’t burn the skin.

Onions in Socks:

Chop up onions and put on the bottom of the feet, then cover with socks. This is especially helpful for babies or your kids who won’t sit still for a poultice.

This is a great option for fevers, as well. The theory behind placing onions in socks for fevers comes from traditional and folk medicine, where these vegetables are believed to have the ability to "draw out toxins" or "pull heat" from the body.

This practice is often rooted in the idea that the soles of the feet are connected to various organs and systems, as suggested by reflexology and some forms of traditional Chinese medicine.

Onions, in particular, contain sulfur compounds with known antimicrobial properties, which some believe may help fight infection. When sliced and placed against the skin, these vegetables are thought to absorb illness-causing agents or reduce body heat through the feet, offering relief from fever symptoms.

Onions by Bed:

Slice an onion and set it by the bed when you sleep. The vapors help thin mucous overnight, making it great for coughing, congestion, and respiratory illness.

DIY Cough Syrup:

Slice an onion and put it in a jar with raw honey. Let Is sit for a few hours and take by the spoonful (for kids 1yr+)