Raw Onion Benefits: 5 Reasons Why You Should Eat It Daily for Immunity

Top five health benefits of eating raw onions daily and find out how this simple kitchen staple can support your immunity, heart health, and digestion.
  • Amit Diwan
  • Editorial
  • Updated - 2025-06-18, 21:06 IST
raw onion benefits

Raw onions may not be everyone’s favourite because of their strong smell and sharp taste, but they’re packed with surprising health benefits, especially for your immune system. Commonly used in salads, chutneys, and traditional home remedies, onions have long been valued in Indian households for their medicinal properties.

Health experts suggest that eating raw onions daily in moderation can be a smart addition to your diet. We spoke to Dr Anjali Sharma, Clinical Nutritionist at Fortis Hospital, Delhi, who says, “Raw onions are rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds that help fight infections, reduce inflammation, and improve overall immunity.”

Raw Onion Benefits

Let’s take a look at what makes raw onions so powerful.

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Boosts Immunity Naturally

Raw onions contain quercetin, a natural antioxidant that has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. According to Dr Sharma, “Quercetin helps reduce oxidative stress and supports immune cells in fighting off infections.” Regular intake, especially during flu season, can give your body an extra layer of defence.

Supports Heart Health

Onions help control blood pressure and lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels. The sulfur compounds and flavonoids present in onions improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that eating raw onions a few times a week may lower the chances of developing hypertension.

Aids Digestion

If you struggle with bloating or slow digestion, raw onions can help. They are a good source of prebiotics, which feed the healthy bacteria in your gut. This improves nutrient absorption and maintains a healthy digestive system.

Regulates Blood Sugar

For people with type 2 diabetes or borderline high blood sugar, adding onions to meals may help. Onions contain compounds that influence insulin production and glucose levels. Eating them raw ensures the beneficial enzymes aren’t lost during cooking.

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Detoxifies the Body

Raw onions act as a natural detox agent. Their sulfur content helps the liver produce detoxifying enzymes that flush out harmful toxins from the body. Dr Sharma adds, “Including raw onions in your diet, especially during summer, can also help maintain electrolyte balance.”

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Should You Eat Raw Onions Daily?

Eating raw onions daily can offer health benefits, but moderation is key. Too much can lead to bad breath, acidity, or stomach discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Raw onions are an affordable, readily available superfood that supports immunity, digestion, and heart health. Including them in your daily diet, especially during changing weather or flu season, can be a natural way to stay healthier.

But as always, if you have any medical conditions or are on specific medication, consult your doctor before making dietary changes.

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Image Courtesy: Freepik

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