The Benefits of Inserting Cloves into an Onion: Old Wisdom Meets Gentle Wellness

Before I dive into the heart of this fascinating home remedy, I just want to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you for being the kind of person who’s curious about natural remedies, who’s open to learning the “why” behind age-old traditions, and who believes that wellness can sometimes come in the simplest forms. You’re exactly the kind of reader I love writing for!

So, have you ever heard someone say, “Stick a few cloves into a raw onion and leave it in your bedroom overnight”? It sounds bizarre—like something your great-grandmother might’ve sworn by—but stick around (pun intended), because this folk remedy has some surprising logic behind it.

And hey—if you’d like more helpful natural living tips like this one, pop your email below and I’ll send them right to your inbox. 💌

What’s the Deal with Cloves and Onions?

This quirky but beloved remedy goes like this:

Peel a white or yellow onion.
Insert 6 to 12 whole cloves into the surface—like pins in a pincushion.
Place the onion in a bowl or on a small dish.
Leave it near your bed overnight, especially if you’re fighting a cold or trying to breathe easier.

It’s easy, affordable, and—honestly—kind of cozy in its old-fashioned charm.

Why People Swear by It

Let’s talk benefits—both believed and scientifically supported. While this isn’t a miracle cure (sorry, sniffles!), it can offer some relief and a lot of comfort.

🌿 Traditional Claims

Clears the air of germs (or at least smells fresher!)
Opens nasal passages
Helps soothe coughs or congestion
Encourages better sleep when you’re sick

🔬 What the Science Says

Here’s where it gets really interesting:

🧅 Onions

Contain sulfur compounds and quercetin, known for their antimicrobial properties
Used in the past (like during the 1918 flu pandemic) to absorb “bad air”—a practice based more on old beliefs, but with a grain of truth.

🌸 Cloves

Packed with eugenol, a powerful natural antiseptic
Antibacterial, antiviral, and even antifungal
Used in dental care for pain and infection control

So while your onion-clove combo won’t suck viruses from the air, it may gently freshen the air, calm your senses, and help you rest easier.

What It Smells and Feels Like

The aroma is warm, spicy, and surprisingly comforting—especially when you’re stuffed up. There’s a gentle humidity from the onion and a whisper of spice from the cloves. It’s like an old-fashioned Vicks, minus the chemicals.

Benefits in a Nutshell 🧄💨

Non-invasive: No pills, no drops—just set it down and rest
Natural aromatherapy: May ease stuffy noses
Budget-friendly: Two kitchen staples, endless comfort
Zero prep time: Takes under 5 minutes to make
Emotionally soothing: The ritual itself can feel nurturing

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 white or yellow onion, peeled
6–12 whole cloves (the kind you’d use in baking)

Tools You’ll Need

A small ceramic bowl or dish
A paring knife (optional, to make little incisions)
Clean hands or gloves

Optional Additions & Variations

Add a few crushed garlic cloves for extra antimicrobial power
Pair with lemon or eucalyptus essential oil on a nearby cotton ball
Use red onion for a slightly sweeter scent
For a warm remedy, try simmering onions, cloves, and ginger and inhaling the steam

Step-by-Step Instructions

Peel the onion completely, removing any dry outer layers.
Insert cloves into the onion, spaced out like decorative studs.
Place on a dish and position near your bed, ideally on a nightstand.
Leave overnight, up to 24–48 hours max.
Discard responsibly—don’t reuse or cook with it!

What to Pair It With

A cup of warm ginger tea 🍵
A vaporizer or cool mist humidifier
Cozy blankets and low lighting for a full relaxing vibe

Tips for Making the Most of It

Use fresh cloves—they should be fragrant and slightly oily to the touch.
Avoid placing near pets or children who might knock it over.
Combine with good hydration and rest—it’s part of a care routine, not a cure.
Don’t eat it after it’s been sitting out—it may harbor bacteria.

Storage Instructions

Since you won’t be saving this one, the only “storage” tip is to toss it within 24–48 hours. Mold and bacteria love cut onions left at room temp—so don’t risk it.

General Information

Cloves are the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree.
Onions have been used medicinally for centuries in various cultures.
This remedy is common in Southeast Asian, African, and European folk medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this cure a cold?

No, it’s not a cure—just a comforting home ritual that may help with symptoms.

Can I eat the onion afterward?

Nope! It’s strictly for aroma. Toss it after use.

Can kids use this remedy?

Yes, but keep the onion out of reach. The scent can be strong, so monitor for sensitivity.

How often can I do this?

During cold season or allergy flare-ups, you can do it nightly for a few days.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t snake oil. It’s not magic. But it is one of those sweet, simple things that can make a tough night feel just a little better. A clove-studded onion won’t replace medicine or prevent illness, but it might give your senses a tiny break when you need it most.

And sometimes, that’s more than enough. 💛

Want More Natural Remedies?

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Share Your Experience!

Have you tried the onion-and-clove remedy before? I’d love to hear how it worked for you! Leave a comment below—or share your setup on Pinterest and tag me so I can see it. Let’s keep these traditions alive, together.

📌 Pin it. Try it. Share it.

Nutritional Information (for fun!)

While this onion isn’t for eating, here’s what you’d get per 1 medium onion + 6 cloves (if you did cook it):

Calories: 45
Carbs: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Vitamin C: 11% DV
Antioxidants: High thanks to sulfur and eugenol

Again—not for dinner, but it’s nice to know your “ingredients” are wholesome!

What’s the Deal with Cloves and Onions?