Why do people carry onions in their pockets in summers?
Everyone who has ever experienced and survived the infamous summers in India deserves a pat on the back. During the season, temperatures within the subcontinent range between 25°C to 45°C, with heat waves forcing people to stay indoors or travel outdoors with necessary precautions such as stalls, bottles of water, and surprisingly onion. If you have ever wondered why so, read along.
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Traditional Beliefs
In some cultures, it is believed that carrying an onion in your pocket can prevent heatstroke, though there is no scientific proof to substantiate the same.Image credits: Canva
Cooling Properties
Onions have natural cooling properties as they contain compounds such as quercetin and sulfur which stimulate perspiration and promote heat loss through evaporation, helping the body to lower the temperature.Image credits: Canva
Antioxidants
As per a study published on the National Institute of Health (NIH) website, onions are rich in antioxidants that can help protect the body from damage from free radicals that move around in the hot weather.
They have natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that help fight infections. Also, onions can help lower blood sugar levels naturally—beneficial for people managing diabetes. Onions contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight inflammation and boosts immunity. Certain compounds in onions may help regulate insulin levels, making them beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes. Image credits: Canva
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The compounds in onions such as quercetin and others have anti-inflammatory properties that can protect from allergies and respiratory issues that are common during the season of heat. It also helps regualte body heat.
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Absorb Heat
According to medical science, the volatile oils present in onions help in reducing body temperature. They also help in absorbing the heat from the body and the moisture in them, helps the body stay cool. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of onions can help combat acne, reduce redness, and prevent skin infections. Apart from that, it protects from extreme heat.
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Do the onions in your pocket really protect you from heat?
Well, while science hasn't touched the topic, traditional beliefs agree. But, the best way to stay protected from the heat with the help of onions would be to consume them as then, they will be really helpful. Eating raw onions is said to help cool the body as their high water content contributes to maintaining the electrolyte balance in the body. They might prevent any inflammation you may face because of the scorching heat. Additionally, as per a research study published in the Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, onions have proven efficiency in preventing heart attacks. Thus, there seem to be no reason why you shouldn't include these magical peels into your diet.
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