Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Onion (Allium cepa) has been traditionally used in various forms of folk medicine for a range of ailments, including digestive complaints. In some traditional systems, onion is believed to have cholagogue properties (stimulating bile flow), which could theoretically help in preventing the formation of gallstones or supporting gallbladder health. However, the use of onion specifically for the treatment or prevention of gallstones is not widely documented in major ethnobotanical or traditional medical texts compared to other remedies such as artichoke or turmeric.

From a scientific perspective, there is limited research directly examining the effects of onion or its constituents on gallstone formation, dissolution, or symptomatic relief. Some studies have explored the general effects of onions on lipid metabolism and liver health, suggesting that onions may help lower cholesterol levels, which could have an indirect benefit since cholesterol stones are common. However, these effects are not specific enough to support a direct role in gallstone management.

Overall, while onion has a long history of use in traditional medicine and may confer general digestive benefits, there is little direct traditional or scientific evidence to robustly support its use specifically for gallstones. Its use appears to be based more on general digestive health recommendations rather than targeted therapy for this condition.

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