Onions are unglamorous. They make you cry, they linger on your breath, and most people treat them as background ingredients rather than the main event. That’s a shame, because nutritionally they’re doing a lot of quiet work. They belong to the Allium family, alongside garlic and leeks, and share the same class of sulfur compounds responsible for both the sharp smell and most of the health benefits. Quercetin, one of the key flavonoids in onions, has well-documented antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A study out of Korea found that onion juice meaningfully reduced blood glucose levels, which has drawn interest in its potential role in diabetes management (1). None of this requires eating them raw or drinking onion juice at breakfast. Cooked into almost anything, they deliver the same minerals, vitamins, and compounds, just with considerably less drama.
It also reduces the risk of cancer. It contains compounds like anthocyanins, quercetin, and organosulfur. According to research, all these compounds may help treat cancer (2).
Also Read – How To Use Onion For Skin Care?
Onion is rich in fiber, which reduces the risk of colon cancer. Red onion juice was more effective in animal studies (3). Onions are also rich in selenium, which improves immunity levels. It stimulates immune response and quashes overactive immune response (4). Cells that lack selenium are more prone to oxidation. It is also difficult for them to make protein and carry calcium (5).
Onion juice helps treat eye infections due to its antibacterial properties. A study on rabbits found that the juice could slow the spread of infection (6). Few studies suggest that the folate in onion can control mood swings and deal with depression (7). It also encourages the production of hormones like epinephrine and dopamine, which normalize sleep (8).
According to research, onion juice was effective for treating earache and ear infections (9). Onion juice also improves the testosterone level in the body, thus enhancing sperm health. In a study, testosterone levels of male rats improved after taking onion juice (10).
Apart from providing a cure to many diseases, onion is that secret ingredient to make your hair shiny and smooth.
Onion For Hair Care
Harnessing the age-old wisdom of onion juice for promoting optimal hair health, particularly in addressing concerns like hair loss, can be a transformative addition to your hair care routine. If you consider incorporating onion juice into your hair care regimen, read on for valuable insights. Before delving into the application process, let’s first explore how to extract onion juice to maximize its benefits for your hair. By understanding the proper method of turning onions into juice, you can unlock the full potential of this natural remedy for healthier and more vibrant hair.
How To Make Onion Juice?
- Peel and chop about 4-5 onions, preferably red onions.
- Please put them in a blender and blend them into a paste.
- Strain through a sieve to get the juice.
Many people prefer to use onion paste instead of juice. A few drops of essential oils can be added to onion juice to reduce the strong smell. The onion juice can be added to your regular shampoo to dilute the smell. If you want to use the onion juice directly, massage the juice on your scalp and leave for 2-3 hours. Then shampoo as usual.
Use Of Onion Juice
Now that we have learned how to make onion juice, we’ll move to include onion juice in our hair care routine for different hair problems.
1. Onion Juice for Hair Growth
Applying onion juice to your scalp is a great way to boost hair growth. The sulfur present in the onion helps stimulate collagen production. Collagen is responsible for the production of healthy skin cells and hair health.
It also improves blood circulation. When applied to the scalp, it boosts the blood supply to hair follicles, thus improving hair growth.
You can make your shampoo by adding onion juice to the shampoo you use. If you are worried about the smell, add a few lemon juice drops to cover the smell.
2. Onion-Oil Mask For Dry And Itchy Scalp
The anti-inflammatory properties of onion help soothe an irritated scalp. You can use the following recipe to treat a dry scalp:
Heat coconut oil and castor oil in the microwave. Add onion juice to it. Massage your scalp and hair with this concoction and leave for one hour. Next, wash your hair with shampoo. You can do this thrice a week to soothe your scalp.
Also Read – 10 Best Anti-Hair Loss Products in India for Long, Strong, and Healthy Hair
3. Onion & Honey Mask For Bald Patches/Alopecia
Scientific research reveals that onion juice can help cure alopecia areata. Alopecia is an autoimmune disease that causes the loss of patchy hair. The participants used onion juice for six weeks and found new hair growth in the bald places. In addition, the treatment was more successful in males than in females (11).
You can use the following onion juice hair masks for treating hair loss and alopecia.
4. Onion Juice & Honey Mask
Ingredients:
- Onion juice half cup
- Honey 1 tbsp
Method:
Mix both ingredients in a clean bowl.
How to use:
Massage the mixture in your scalp and leave for 15-30 minutes. Then rinse it and wash it with a natural shampoo. You can use this once or twice a week.
5. Onion juice & Fenugreek Mask For Dandruff
Dandruff can be embarrassing and irritating. One of the common causes of dandruff is a fungus, M. furfur. Enriched with anti-fungal properties, onion juice can be a dandruff buster.
You can combine onion juice with other beneficial ingredients for hair to make a mask.
Ingredients:
- Onion juice four tablespoon
- Fenugreek seeds two tablespoon
- Water 1 cup
Method:
Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Grind them to a paste and mix with onion juice.
How to use:
Apply the paste on the scalp and leave for half an hour. Wash hair as usual. You can do this twice a week.
6. Onion Henna Mask For Grey Hair
There is no substantial study to suggest that onion juice can reverse greying. However, many home remedies claim onion juice can reduce grey hair. This is probably because onions contain catalase, which lessens hydrogen peroxide at the roots. This prevents hair from turning grey. If you are interested in trying, then you can whip the following mask:
Ingredients:
- Henna 1cup
- Onion juice half cup
- Olive oil 2tbsp
Method:
Make a paste of onion juice, olive oil, and henna till it forms a paste-like consistency.
How to use:
Apply the paste to your scalp and hair and leave for two hours. Wash as usual. You can use this once a month.
Also Read – How To Exfoliate Your Scalp – 11 Homemade Brown Sugar Scrub Recipes
7. Onion Juice for Dry and brittle Hair
Onions are rich in flavonoids, biotin, Vitamin C, manganese, and other minerals, vital for healthy hair. Onion juice not only moisturizes but reinvigorates dry and damaged hair. The compounds are not only anti-inflammatory but also boost blood circulation to hair. You can try the following onion mask for healthy hair:
Ingredients:
- Onion juice four tablespoons
- Egg 1
Method:
Separate egg yolk and white. Whisk egg white well with onion juice.
How to use:
Apply this mixture to your scalp and along the length of your hair. Please keep it for half an hour. Then, wash with cool water and mild shampoo. You can repeat this once a week.
Ensure you wash the mask with cool water, as rinsing with warm water can make the egg’s smell linger. You can add essential oil to mellow the smell of eggs and onion. Do not skip this mask, as eggs are protein-rich and can nourish and condition your hair.
Also Read – Embrace Curd For Hair Loss! (16 Super Effective Curd Hair Packs)
Side Effects of Using Onion
If you are allergic to onion juice, it can irritate your skin. People with sensitive skin should avoid it as it may sting their skin. Do a patch test before applying onion juice to the scalp.
For the patch test, apply a few onion juice drops at the back of your ear and wait for a few minutes. If it irritates, then do not continue with the application.
Also, prevent onion juice from getting in your eyes as it can cause redness and irritation. If it does, then rinse with cool water.
How do you get rid of the onion smell from your hair?
Many people could discontinue using onion masks due to the smell they leave. But we bring you a few DIYs to make your hair smell fresh and pleasant even after using onion juice.
Lemon juice Rinse
- Mix a half cup of lemon juice in one cup of water.
- After washing, apply the mixture to wet hair and leave for 10 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
Avoid going out in the sun after using this, as exposure to sunlight may lighten your hair.
Baking soda
Add two teaspoons of baking soda to your shampoo and wash your hair as usual. Baking soda neutralizes the smell of onion and also conditions your hair.
Mint Leaves
- The fresh mint leaves not only make your hair smell good but also give shine to your hair.
- Steep for minutes and leave in a cup of hot water for 5 minutes.
- When cooled, wash your hair with this water.
Also Read – Cinnamon – 23 Amazing Health and Beauty Benefits You Should Know About
Summary:
Onion is rich in nutrients and can reduce the risk of certain serious health diseases like cancer and diabetes. It also improves testosterone and immunity levels in the body. It helps treat eye and ear infections. Apart from providing many health benefits, it is excellent for hair care. Onion juice can be used to make different masks for treating various hair issues. Onion juice can be used to treat hair conditions like dandruff, dry and damaged hair, grey hair, alopecia, and itchy scalp. It is one of the best juices to promote hair growth. However, a patch test should be done before using it on the scalp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does onion juice benefit hair and scalp health?
Onion juice is rich in sulfur, which promotes hair growth by improving blood circulation to the hair follicles. It also contains antibacterial properties that may help combat scalp infections and dandruff.
Can onion juice prevent hair loss?
Yes, onion juice has been suggested to reduce hair loss effectively. The sulfur content helps strengthen hair and may minimize hair thinning and breakage.
How do I make onion juice for hair?
To make onion juice, peel and chop an onion, blend it, and strain it. Apply the extracted juice to your scalp and hair, leaving it on for about 30 minutes before washing it off.
Is there a specific way to use onion juice for the best results?
Applying onion juice to the scalp and massaging it gently is recommended. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing with a mild shampoo. Regular and consistent use may yield better results.
Does onion juice have a strong smell, and how can I manage it?
Yes, onion juice has a strong odor. Mix the juice with aloe vera or essential oils to manage the smell. Additionally, thorough rinsing and using a scented conditioner can help reduce the odor.
How often should I apply onion juice to my hair?
Initially, start with once a week and observe how your scalp and hair respond. You can gradually increase the frequency to two to three times a week if needed.
Are there any side effects of using onion juice on hair?
While onion juice is generally safe, some people may experience scalp irritation or an allergic reaction. Doing a patch test before applying it widely is advisable, and consult with a dermatologist if you have concerns.
Can onion juice change the color of my hair?
Onion juice is not known to change hair color. However, if you have light-colored hair, monitoring its impact and possibly diluting the juice is recommended to avoid staining.
How long does it take to see results for hair growth with onion juice?
Results may vary, but some individuals report noticing improvements in hair texture and growth after a few weeks of regular use.
Can onion juice be used for all hair types?
Yes, onion juice is generally suitable for all hair types. However, individuals with sensitive skin or existing scalp conditions should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional.
References –
- “The antidiabetic effect of onion and garlic in experimental diabetic rats: meta-analysis” – pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Therapeutic Role of Functional Components in Alliums for Preventive Chronic Disease in Human Being” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Immunomodulatory Effect of Red Onion (Allium cepa Linn) Scale Extract on Experimentally Induced Atypical Prostatic Hyperplasia in Wistar Rats” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “The influence of selenium on immune responses” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “The Role of Selenium in Inflammation and Immunity: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Opportunities” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Effects of Onion Juice on the Normal Flora of Eyelids and Conjunctiva in an Animal Model” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “The methylation, neurotransmitter, and antioxidant connections between folate and depression” – pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Folate intake and depressive symptoms in Japanese workers considering SES and job stress factors: J-HOPE study” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “An onion in your ear” – cambridge.org
- “Evaluation of androgenic activity of allium cepa on spermatogenesis in the rat” – pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Onion Juice (Allium cepa L.), A New Topical Treatment for Alopecia Areata” – pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
