Benefits of Putting Cloves in an Onion

Putting Cloves in an Onion: Benefits & What to Expect

"Stick a few cloves into a peeled onion and leave it in your room overnight to help with a cold!"

It sounds unusual, but this simple practice has been passed down for generations as a comforting home remedy. People 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 helps to understand what it actually does – and what it doesn’t.

Traditional Method

  1. Peel a whole onion (white or yellow).

  2. Insert 6–12 whole cloves into it.

  3. Place the onion on a small plate or bowl near your bed.

  4. Leave it overnight or for up to 1–2 days.

Believed benefits:

  • Freshens the air

  • Helps with stuffy noses

  • Makes sleep more comfortable

  • Reduces lingering odors