Onions are an important component of our meals and millions of people across the globe use onions every day. Besides the sweet aroma and flavor it adds to food, there are several other health benefits that can be derived from onions. Onions are one of the oldest cultivated vegetables in history and for several years they have been utilized a food source. They have a scientific classification of Aliium Cepa and the world health organization confirms that they have several health benefits.
- Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a gum infection that destroys the soft tissues and the bone that supports the teeth. It makes the teeth loose and in the severe form of the disease, the teeth can be lost. This disease is common and it is usually as a result of poor hygiene. The common causative organisms for this disease are Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus Sobrinus. The extracts from onions can best be used for the treatment of this disease due to its bacteriostatic activity against the S. mutrans and the S. Sobrinus.
- Escherichia coli
This is a gram-negative facultative anaerobic, rod shaped bacteria that is commonly found in the lower gastrointestinal tract. There are several types of E.coli strains but most of them are harmless. However there are strains that can cause bloody diarrhea, severe anemia and urinary tract infections. Infections from E.coli are very common today. The extracts of onion bulbs have shown inhibitory effects against E. coli and they can be used to help in the treatment of this infection.
- Salmonella
Organisms from the genus salmonella are the most common causes of food and water borne infectious diseases. These organisms have a wide host range and they are transmitted through the feaco-oral route. Infections by these micro-organisms commonly present with diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite and vomiting. Salmonella is also sensitive to the extracts of the inion bulbs and they can be used as remedies for both treatment and prevention of the infection.
- Staphylococcus aureas
Staphylococcus aureas is a gram positive rod shaped bacteria. It is a member of the Firmicates. It is common in the nose, skin, and the respiratory system. Infections by this organism can cause pneumonia, food poising, septicemia and toxic shock syndrome. Methanol and aqueous solutions of dried onions show an inhibitory effect against this organism. The bioactive constituents of the onion that are active against the S. Aureas are derived from the bulb.
Besides the antibacterial properties of onions there are several other advantages we get from them. Onions have at least 25 flavonols that have positive effects on health. The alkenyl cysteine sulphoxides from onions have a wide range of health benefits including, anti-carcinogenic properties, antiplatelet activity, anti-asthmatic and antithrombotic effects.
Onion nutrition is also important in helping the body to maintain balanced sugar levels. It also facilitates building strong bones and it is protective against inflammation which is a process in several disease processes and infection. Besides using onions for flavor, you can use it for health purposes too.
