Tips

The Magic of Onions: Why Are Moms-in-Charge Rushing to Apply This Tasty Treat to Their Baby’s Soles?

Introducing a time-honored folk remedy that has gained traction among savvy moms: the curious practice of applying raw onion to the soles of their little ones' feet. This unconventional approach sparks curiosity, and the reasons behind this seemingly strange practice are about to be unveiled.

Administrator

28 July, 2024

With the recent rainy season bringing cooler temperatures, young children are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses such as colds, coughs, fevers, and runny noses. However, as many parents are reluctant to rely heavily on antibiotics for their little ones, an alternative remedy has been shared among mothers: using onions to treat colds, coughs, and runny noses in young children by placing them on the soles of their feet.

1 The Benefits of Onions in Treating Colds and Fevers in Children

The Benefits of Onions

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, onions contain certain phytoncides such as allicin, which possess strong antibacterial properties and are effective in killing various bacteria associated with colds and respiratory illnesses.

This method of reducing fever involves placing onions on the soles of the feet, which are considered the root of the body, where blood vessels, acupressure points, and nearly 7,000 nerve endings converge. This approach helps to fight off viruses in the body through the nerve endings, while also improving blood circulation, promoting perspiration, detoxifying the body, and aiding in the treatment of colds and fevers in children.

2 How to Place Onions on Your Child’s Soles

Placing Onions on the Soles

This method is simple and easy to perform with the following steps:

Step 1 Cut an onion (you can use either white or red onion) along its horizontal grain and then slice it into thin pieces.

Step 2 Place the onion slices on the soles of your child’s feet and then put on a pair of socks. Leave them on overnight.

Step 3 In the morning, when your child wakes up, wash their feet with cool water.

3 Some Precautions When Using Onions to Reduce Fever

Placing Onions on the Soles

Perform this treatment every night until the symptoms of the cold subside.
When doing this, ensure that your child’s body remains warm to prevent them from catching a chill again.
Do not apply this method to children under 2 years of age as their foot pads are still delicate, and the onion’s heat may cause burns.

This simple remedy may surprise you with its effectiveness. In addition to reducing fever, it also aids in detoxification, boosts the immune system, and helps restore energy after a long day.

Frequently asked questions

Onions have long been used as a natural remedy for various ailments, and they are particularly effective when applied to the soles of the feet. The high concentration of sulfur compounds in onions gives them anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. When applied to the soles, these compounds can help soothe and heal a variety of issues, including coughs, colds, and fever.

To prepare an onion for this purpose, simply cut a fresh onion in half and place the cut side directly onto the sole of your baby’s foot. You can secure it in place with a sock or bandage. Leave it on for around 30 minutes to an hour, and then remove. Repeat this process once or twice a day as needed.

Onion application is generally safe, but some babies may experience mild skin irritation. It is always recommended to do a small patch test first to ensure your baby doesn’t have any adverse reactions. Additionally, be mindful to use fresh onions and avoid applying onion juice, as the concentrated juice can be too strong and cause skin issues.

Applying onion to the soles can help boost your baby’s immune system, reduce inflammation, and aid in fighting off infections. It can also help with teething pain and provide relief from colds and coughs. Some parents also report improved sleep and reduced fussiness in their babies after using onion applications.

Using onions for medicinal purposes has a long history in many cultures, and it is a practice that has been passed down through generations. While it may not be as widely known or practiced as some other home remedies, there is a dedicated community of parents and caregivers who swear by the benefits of onion applications for their little ones.