Debunking The Ancient Onion-Sock Remedy: What To Know As We Enter Flu Season

The History of the Onion-Sock Remedy

The onion-sock remedy is a trick where you put sliced raw onion in your sock to help draw viruses and toxins out of your body. According to The National Onion Association, the remedy dates all the way back to the 1500s and was commonly performed during the bubonic plague. However, the trick was still heavily used during the early 20th century during the influenza epidemic, and it is even still believed in today. Back when it originated, the onion remedy was believed to work because naturalists thought that illnesses were transmitted through contaminated or poisonous air, which isn’t wholly incorrect. (However, now we understand the germ theory of disease, which states that viruses are transmitted through human saliva via coughing or sneezing, and not through merely “toxic air.”)

It also relies on the Chinese medical practice known as reflexology, which, according to The Mayo Clinic, is the general belief that the feet are directly connected to bodily systems, and therefore can be used to draw out illnesses, relieve pressure, and more. So, what about onions is so critical in this equation? Onions were believed to soak up airborne toxins with the help of their sulfuric compounds. Given this medical ideology, placing these antioxidants near the access points in the feet was believed to alleviate symptoms of illness. It sounds like the trick may have promise to work, but does it truly have scientific merit? 

Fact or Myth?

There are several scientifically-backed reasons why the onion-sock remedy has been proven incorrect, starting with the fact that it’s based on reflexology. While there are tons of great Eastern medical practices out there that produce effective results, reflexology is not one of these. In fact, it has been tested and proven to show no positive impacts on health in several studies. Modern research argues that viruses require direct contact with a human host in order to be spread, so the idea that an onion can draw the germs out of the body is a complete myth.

Secondly, some evidence points to the notion that onions can kill bacteria when put in contact with bacteria. The root vegetable’s antibacterial properties can kill germs when directly applied to the bacterial surface, however, this is the extent of their germ-killing abilities. Nothing about an onion’s physical properties make it possible for it to attract viruses or bacteria alone. Thirdly, none of the websites, blogs, or posts where the onion-sock remedy is endorsed actually cite any scientific evidence. Individuals can claim all day long that this trick works wonders for them, but without the scientific evidence to prove so, it’s just a placebo effect. 

Onions’ antibacterial properties can only kill germs when directly applied to the bacterial surface.

However, don’t fret, if you’re a diehard believer in the onion-sock remedy, you don’t have to stop practicing this trick. Scientists believe there’s no real health hazard in putting onions in your socks. Rather, they believe that it won’t affect you strongly in either a positive or negative way. And if you believe that putting onions in your socks is helping your physical health, then there’s no reason why you should force yourself to believe otherwise.

The fact that the onion remedy has been around for so long, and is still widely used without any true scientific support, speaks to the power of placebo effects. Let this be a lesson that the human mind has a profound impact on our physical body’s health and wellness. If you treat yourself with kindness and maintain a positive attitude while sick, you will likely feel better mentally, and as a result, physically, too. That’s not to say that being an optimist will make you immune from all physical harm or disease, but those who are mentally strong are also often physically strong. Instead of worrying, complaining, and wallowing in pity when you get sick, think positively and tell yourself that you’re going to get better soon. Don’t knock yourself over when you’re already down – practice positivity.

Alternative Onion Remedies 

Maybe putting an onion in your sock isn’t the most effective practice, but there are plenty of other ways that onions can be useful when preventing or fighting off a virus. Onions are a low-calorie and high-fiber food that have great health benefits when consumed. Eating onions helps reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, decrease blood pressure, and aid in digestive and heart health. Some studies have shown that they can even reduce the risk of cancer, promote hair and skin growth, reduce the risk of depression, and boost bone density. Their most relevant quality to fighting off illness is their high concentration of vitamin C – the nutrient which aids most directly in strengthening the immune system. If you eat onions regularly, you could be a step ahead of those who don’t as we enter flu season.

Closing Thoughts

Although the onion-sock remedy has been debunked, the nutrient-rich root vegetables can still be quite valuable when it comes to fighting off illness. And while the ancient trick was based on an Eastern medical practice that has now been proven inaccurate, it doesn’t mean that there aren’t other homeopathic cures to illness that are effective. Do your research when it comes to your health, and remember that your mentality will have a strong correlation to how your body feels and heals.

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