Red onions are widely recognized and frequently used in cooking, similar to garlic. However, their benefits extend beyond culinary uses, offering significant health advantages, particularly for babies. In addition to being a staple in the kitchen, red onions serve as an effective component in various health remedies.
Let’s explore the numerous health benefits of red onions, especially how they can be beneficial for babies. But first, let’s take a look at the nutritional components found in red onions.
Nutritional Components of Red Onions:
- Calcium
- Sulfur
- Vitamin A
- Sativin
- Iron
- Phosphorus
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin C
- Protein
Health Benefits of Red Onions for Babies:
- Relieve Flu Symptoms
Babies have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more susceptible to illnesses. Red onions contain properties that help strengthen the immune system, protecting babies from diseases such as the flu. The antibacterial and antiviral components in red onions make them a natural remedy for flu symptoms. - Alleviate Cough
Red onions are also effective in treating coughs caused by viruses or bacteria. A simple remedy involves preparing 1 to 2 cloves of red onions, slicing them thinly, and crushing them. The crushed onions can be applied to a baby’s back, legs, and hands after applying a layer of essential oil, which not only enhances the scent but also helps warm the body, providing additional relief. - Reduce Fever
Red onions can be used to help lower fevers in babies. Their antibacterial properties help eliminate the bacteria responsible for causing fever. - Relieve Bloating
Babies often experience bloating, especially after consuming large amounts of breast milk. Rubbing red onions on their stomachs can help alleviate this discomfort. - Treat Cold Symptoms
When babies have a cold, one of the symptoms they might experience is a bloated stomach, especially if their stomach is empty or has been exposed to cold air. Massaging red onions on their back and stomach can help alleviate cold symptoms. - Perform Scraping Massage for Children
This benefit is more suitable for older children rather than babies. If a child is unwell and unwilling to take medication, red onions can be used as an alternative remedy. A scraping massage with red onions can provide relief, as the beneficial compounds in red onions are absorbed through the skin. - Treat Skin Ulcers
Skin ulcers on babies can be problematic, especially as they may unintentionally scratch the affected areas, worsening the condition. Applying red onions to the ulcer can help treat and soothe the area. - Ease Urination
Red onions can assist in easing urination difficulties in babies, which might occur due to various health issues. - Use as Essential Oil in Baby Massage
Red onions can be mixed with essential oils to create a massage oil that benefits a baby’s overall health. - Prevent Mosquito Bites
Babies are often targeted by mosquitoes due to their soft skin and the perceived freshness of their blood. Red onions can be used as a natural remedy to prevent mosquito bites, in addition to using protective measures like mosquito nets.
Additional Benefits of Red Onions for Babies:
- Heal minor wounds
- Serve as aromatherapy
- Protect the skin
- Prevent eye diseases
- Shield from various illnesses
- Strengthen bones
- Support healthy teeth development
These are some of the many benefits that red onions offer for the health of babies and children. By understanding these advantages, parents can use red onions as a natural remedy to address common health issues in babies, such as colds, flu, and coughs, or to promote overall health and well-being. Red onions are easily accessible, making them a convenient option for preparing natural remedies at home.