“Stick a few cloves into a peeled onion and leave it in your room overnight to help with a cold!”
It might sound unusual, but this simple practice has been passed down for generations as a comforting home remedy. People often use it to freshen the air, ease congestion, and create a more restful environment when they’re not feeling well. While it’s rooted in tradition, it’s helpful to understand what it actually does—and what it doesn’t.
Traditional Method
- Peel a whole onion (white or yellow)
- Insert 6–12 whole cloves into it
- Place it on a small plate or bowl near your bed
- Leave it overnight or for up to 1–2 days
Many believe it can:
- Freshen the air
- Help with stuffy noses
- Make sleep more comfortable
- Reduce lingering odors
What We Know
Onions contain natural compounds
Onions have sulfur-based compounds and antioxidants that show mild antimicrobial effects in controlled lab settings.
Cloves contain eugenol
Cloves are rich in eugenol, a compound known for its strong scent and natural antibacterial qualities.
Reality check:
This mixture does not pull germs from the air or cure illness. Any noticeable effects are mainly due to aroma and personal comfort rather than actual treatment.
What You Might Notice
- A stronger, slightly spicy scent in the room
- A feeling of easier breathing from the aroma
- A subtle sense of freshness in the air
- Comfort from following a familiar routine
What It Doesn’t Do
- Cure colds or the flu
- Replace medication or medical advice
- Eliminate viruses or bacteria in your space or body
Safety Tip
Onions can spoil quickly. Discard it after 24–48 hours and don’t eat it afterward.
Alternative Option
Some people prefer simmering onion, cloves, garlic, and ginger in hot water and inhaling the steam for a few minutes, which may help with congestion.
Final Thought
This is a traditional remedy that can provide a sense of comfort and mild relief, mainly through its scent and the calming effect of routine—not through any proven medical action.
