8. Onion Juice
Onions have been cultivated and enjoyed as food for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Egyptians, who viewed the onion as a symbol of eternal life and were used to treat a variety of ailments like fertility, hair loss, coughs and headaches.
Onions have many health benefits. They’re an allium vegetable that contains a unique combination of flavonoids and other nutrients, as well as sulfuric compounds that give the pungent odor. These sulfuric compounds are thought to lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, while also improving the function of cell membranes in red blood cells. Onions hold anti-inflammatory properties, including large amounts of quercetin, a flavonoid that supports respiratory health, cardiovascular health and balanced blood pressure. Studies have shown that quercetin is associated with a reduction in risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.
The benefits of onions don’t just stop at the flesh. Raw onion juice is equally beneficial, though it may not sound as appetizing. Onions are healthy whether they’re cooked or raw, but cooking them can decrease the amount of phytonutrients and lessen the benefits. The juice of an onion is a great source of sulfur, which can help improve the circulation of blood and promote healthier levels of blood pressure and cholesterol.
Onion juice can be bought online, but it’s best when made fresh at home. Using a juicer is the quickest, easiest way to do it. Onion juice can be drunk by itself, but if you’re not too keen on that idea (and who would be?) you can add it to smoothies and other juices to mask that strong flavor. Onion juice can also be used as a dressing on salads and vegetables, and in soup.