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
-
Peel a whole onion (white or yellow).
-
Insert 6–12 whole cloves into it.
-
Place the onion on a small plate or bowl near your bed.
-
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