Benefits of Putting Cloves in an Onion

 

Putting Cloves in an Onion: Benefits & What to Expect

"Stick a few cloves into a peeled onion and leave it in your room overnight to help with a cold!"

It sounds unusual, but this simple practice has been passed down for generations as a comforting home remedy. People use it to freshen the air, ease congestion, and create a more restful environment when they're not feeling well. While it’s rooted in tradition, it helps to understand what it actually does – and what it doesn’t.

Traditional Method

1. Peel a whole onion (white or yellow).

2. Insert 6–12 whole cloves into it.

3. Place the onion on a small plate or bowl near your bed.

4. Leave it overnight or for up to 1–2 days.

Believed benefits:

• Freshens the air

• Helps with stuffy noses

• Makes sleep more comfortable

• Reduces lingering odors

What Science Says

✅ Onions contain natural compounds
Onions have sulfur‑based compounds and antioxidants that show mild antimicrobial effects in controlled lab settings.

✅ Cloves contain eugenol
Cloves are rich in eugenol, a compound known for its strong scent and natural antibacterial qualities.

⚠️ Reality check:
This mixture does not pull germs from the air or cure illness. Any noticeable effects come mainly from aroma and personal comfort – not actual medical action.

What You Might Notice

• A stronger, slightly spicy scent in the room

• A feeling of easier breathing from the aroma

• A subtle sense of freshness in the air

• Comfort from following a familiar routine

What It Does NOT Do

• Cure colds or the flu

• Replace medication or medical advice

• Eliminate viruses or bacteria in your space or body

Safety Tip

Onions spoil quickly. Discard the onion after 24–48 hours and do not eat it afterward.

Alternative Option

Some people prefer simmering onion, cloves, garlic, and ginger in hot water, then inhaling the steam for a few minutes. This may help with congestion more directly.

Final Thought

This traditional remedy can provide a sense of comfort and mild relief – mainly through its scent and the calming effect of routine – not through any proven medical action. Use it as a complementary practice, not a substitute for proper medical care.

Enjoy the comfort of tradition, but always prioritize evidence‑based treatment when you're truly sick.