Beyond the Cold: What are onions and honey good for?

October 4, 2025 •

5 min read

For centuries, the combination of onions and honey has been a folk remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly for respiratory health. So, beyond anecdotal evidence, what are onions and honey good for, backed by their nutritional compounds and traditional use? This potent duo offers a synergistic blend of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Quick Summary

This article explores the health benefits of combining onions and honey, focusing on their effectiveness as a natural remedy for respiratory issues like coughs and colds. It details how their combined properties can boost immune function, aid digestion, and support skin health. The article also provides a step-by-step guide for creating a simple syrup and highlights important safety precautions.

Key Points

Respiratory Relief: The combination of onion and honey is a well-known folk remedy used to soothe coughs, clear mucus, and calm irritated throats.
Immune System Support: Rich in antioxidants from both ingredients, the syrup helps boost immune function and fight off infections during cold and flu season.
Digestive Aid: Onions contain prebiotic fibres that support healthy gut bacteria, while honey soothes the digestive tract, helping with issues like bloating.
Topical Skin Benefits: When applied topically, the mixture's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can aid in treating acne, reducing scars, and moisturizing the skin.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: Both ingredients contain powerful antioxidants, such as quercetin in onions, that combat inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Easy Homemade Syrup: A simple remedy can be made by infusing sliced onions in raw honey, requiring minimal effort and time.

The combination of onions and honey is a classic natural remedy that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. Separately, these two common pantry items are nutritional powerhouses. Onions are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, while honey is known for its antibacterial and soothing properties. When brought together, their individual strengths amplify, creating a potent mixture often used to combat common health issues, particularly those affecting the respiratory system.

The Individual Health Benefits

The Nutritional Power of Onions

Onions are more than just a flavourful kitchen staple; they are packed with health-promoting compounds. They are a significant source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, folate, and potassium. Furthermore, they contain sulfur compounds, which are responsible for their pungent smell and many of their health benefits, as well as powerful antioxidants called flavonoids, such as quercetin. Research suggests that these compounds are linked to lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, fighting inflammation, and potentially offering anti-cancer properties. Prebiotic fibres like fructooligosaccharides found in onions also help feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting better digestive health.

The Healing Qualities of Honey

Honey has been used medicinally for thousands of years. It possesses natural antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent soothing agent. Its thick, syrupy consistency helps to coat and calm irritated throats, which is why it's a popular ingredient in cough remedies. The phytonutrients and antioxidants in honey have also been associated with heart health benefits and boosting the immune system. Different types of honey, such as Manuka, are even prized for their high levels of specific antibacterial compounds.

The Combined Effect: What are Onions and Honey Good For?

When combined, the properties of onions and honey create a synergistic remedy that targets several aspects of health.

Respiratory Support

The most traditional use of the onion and honey concoction is for respiratory issues. Honey's ability to soothe a sore throat complements the onion's expectorant properties, which help to thin and loosen mucus. The anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin from the onion and honey's soothing nature work together to calm irritated airways and reduce coughing. This makes it a popular homemade syrup for minor colds, coughs, and congestion.

Boosting the Immune System

Both ingredients are rich in antioxidants and possess antimicrobial qualities. The sulfur compounds in onions can help stimulate white blood cell production, while honey contains phytonutrients and amino acids that support the immune system. Together, they provide a powerful blend to help the body fight off infections and support overall immune function during cold and flu season.

Digestive Health

Onions contain prebiotic fibres that promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, contributing to more efficient digestion. In traditional medicine, honey is often used to help aid the digestion of other medicinal ingredients. This combination can help soothe stomach discomfort, reduce bloating, and support a healthy gut microbiome.

Skin Health and Topical Use

Beyond internal consumption, the combination can be applied topically. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of both ingredients can help with minor skin issues. Applied as a paste, the mixture is believed to help fight bacteria that cause acne, reduce inflammation, and even potentially reduce the appearance of scars. Honey is a natural humectant that draws and locks moisture into the skin, while vitamin C from onions supports collagen production.

How to Make a Simple Onion and Honey Syrup

Creating this natural remedy at home is straightforward and requires only two main ingredients. Here’s a simple method:

Ingredients: 1 medium onion (red or white), enough raw honey to cover the onion slices.
Instructions:
1. Peel and finely slice the onion.
2. In a clean glass jar, create alternating layers of onion slices and raw honey.
3. Cover the jar with a lid and let it sit at room temperature for at least 8-12 hours, or overnight. The honey will draw out the onion's juices, creating a syrupy liquid.
4. Strain the syrup to remove the onion pieces, or keep them in for a stronger flavour.
5. Store the finished syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.

Comparison of Onion, Honey, and the Combined Syrup


Health Benefit	Onions Alone	Honey Alone	Onion & Honey Combination
Immune Support	Rich in antioxidants and compounds like quercetin that fight inflammation.	Contains antioxidants and phytonutrients that boost the immune system.	Synergistic effect, combining antioxidants and antimicrobial properties to enhance the body's defense.
Cough & Sore Throat	Acts as an expectorant, helping to clear mucus.	Coats the throat to soothe irritation and suppress coughs.	Provides a comprehensive solution by both clearing mucus and soothing the throat effectively.
Digestion	Contains prebiotics that nourish beneficial gut bacteria.	Can assist with the digestion of other substances and relieve gastrointestinal conditions.	Supports gut health through prebiotics and aids digestion with soothing properties.
Skin	Contains vitamin C and anti-inflammatory compounds that fight bacteria and support collagen.	Has antibacterial, antiseptic, and moisturizing properties.	Addresses multiple skin concerns, from fighting bacteria to promoting healing and moisturization.

Important Considerations and Safety

While the onion and honey remedy is generally safe for adults, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind:

Infant Botulism: A critical warning is that raw honey should never be given to infants under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism, a serious form of food poisoning caused by bacterial spores.
Digestive Issues: Excessive consumption of raw onion can cause digestive discomfort, such as stomach pain or heartburn, in some individuals. Those with sensitive stomachs or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) should consume it in moderation.
Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some people may be allergic to onions. If applying topically, perform a patch test on a small area of skin first and watch for irritation or other allergic signs.
Consult a Doctor: For persistent or severe symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Natural remedies should not replace medical advice or prescribed treatments, especially for more serious conditions.

Conclusion

Understanding what onions and honey good for reveals a simple yet powerful natural remedy with broad health applications. From easing respiratory discomfort and boosting the immune system to aiding digestion and promoting skin health, this combination leverages the best qualities of each ingredient. When prepared and used safely, particularly by avoiding raw honey for infants, this age-old concoction remains a valuable and accessible tool for natural wellness. For more in-depth information on the properties of honey and potential side effects, authoritative sources like the Mayo Clinic can provide further guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

To make the syrup, thinly slice one onion and layer it with raw honey in a glass jar. Let it sit at room temperature for 8-12 hours, or until the onion releases its juice and mixes with the honey. Strain the liquid and store it in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.

Children over 1 year old can typically have the syrup, but it should not be given to infants under one year due to the risk of botulism from raw honey. Always consult a pediatrician before giving any new remedy to a child.

For cough relief, it is important to follow the guidance of a healthcare professional or the product label regarding the appropriate frequency of use. Starting with a smaller amount and monitoring your body's reaction is generally advised.

For maximum health benefits, opt for raw and unprocessed honey and use a fresh, organic onion. Red onions often contain higher levels of antioxidants like anthocyanins.

While generally safe, some individuals might experience stomach discomfort, heartburn, or gas from consuming excessive raw onion. Allergic reactions, though rare, can also occur.

Yes, a paste made from the blend can be applied topically to target issues like acne, inflammation, and scarring, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Always perform a patch test first to avoid irritation.

The syrup can be stored in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2-6 months if strained, or about a week if the onion pieces are left in. Always discard if you notice any signs of spoilage.