However, reusing the same onion slice is not at all recommended. There has been an age old controversy regarding the existence of meridians, but those who are well versed with the Chinese medicine know that the meridian system is very closely related to our body’s nervous system. When considering new treatments for cold and flu, it is always a good idea to speak to a doctor first. Any claims of effectiveness are based on anecdotes rather than research. Taking onion along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

The heat generated leads to the release of this acid, which enters the blood vessels seeping through the semipermeable membrane. This further passes through the veins and helps in purification of the blood and boosts blood circulation. These meridians act as powerful electric circuits within the body, but are often dormant as we mostly cover our feet with footwear. Stimulating these meridians is very important for our body to function healthily. This article looks at the research into their effectiveness, recipes, and some alternatives. The belief that raw onion can treat flu is believed to date from the 1500s.

Before scientists identified germs as being responsible for illness, people believed that raw onions could purify the air in the room. When placed against the skin of the foot and kept in a sock, people thought that onion could cleanse the blood. People claimed this purification process could cure the common cold or the flu. Research has been done to assess the ancient practice of foot reflexology, which connects to the claim that putting onions on the feet could help relieve illness.

Alex Kasprak is an investigative journalist and science writer reporting on scientific misinformation, online fraud, and financial crime. Et al. “Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Quercetin Oxidation Products from Yellow Onion Skin.” Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. If you believe you have nerves and a nervous system, you believe you have meridians too, it’s basically the same thing when you interpret it and look at where the meridians are within the body. It turns out that when it comes to fighting the flu, there are a lot people will try this. But again, there’s no evidence to back it up, so feel free to enjoy those leftovers.

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The onion and sock therapy is one of those hacks that keep making a comeback on the internet from time to time. Check out the infographic below, where we have presented an overview of this therapy. There is no cure taping thighs for colds, but a person can take steps to look after themselves if they feel a cold coming on. However, some vitamins may help someone get rid of a cold faster, or reduce the number of colds they get each year.