Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research (ISSN : 0975-7384)

Allium cepa: A traditional medicinal herb and its health benefits

Author(s): K. P. Sampath Kumar*, Debjit Bhowmik, Chiranjib, Biswajit and Pankaj Tiwari

Allium cepa is highly valued for its therapeutic properties. It has been used as a food remedy from time immemorial . Research shows that onions may help guard against m any chronic diseases. That's probably because onions contain g enerous amounts of the flavonoid quercetin. Studies have shown that quercetin prote cts against cataracts, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. In addition, onions contain a variety of other naturally occurring chemicals known as organosulfur com-pounds that have been linked to lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.Although rarely used specifically as a medic inal herb, the onion has a wide range of beneficial actions on the body and when eaten (espe cially raw) on a regular basis will promote the general health of the body. The bulb is anthelm intic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypoglycaemic, hypotensive, lithontripic, stomachic and tonic. When used regula rly in the diet it offsets tendencies towards angina, arteriosclerosis and heart attack. This is used particularly in the treatment of people whose symptoms include running eyes and nose. The o nions ability to relieve congestions especially in the lungs and bronchial tract, is har d to believe until you have actually witnessed the results. The drawing of infection, congestion and colds out of the ear is also remarkable. The onion will relieve stomach upset and other gastroin testinal disorders and it will also strengthen the appetite. Pharmacologically know as Allium cepa , onion is found in every household. The purple skinned onion tastes great. Additionally, it has several health benefits and is part of many home remedies and beauty solutions.

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