Synopsis

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

Onion (Allium cepa) has been used in various traditional medicine systems for its purported health benefits, including the support of glandular health and the treatment of swollen lymph nodes. In folk medicine, onions have been applied as poultices or consumed to alleviate swelling, inflammation, and infections, which are sometimes associated with swollen glands or lymphadenopathy. This traditional use is likely due to onion's known antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as observed in laboratory studies. However, there is a lack of direct clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of onion, either topically or orally, specifically for swollen lymph nodes in humans.

The use of onion for treating this condition is therefore primarily rooted in tradition rather than scientific validation. While onions contain bioactive compounds such as quercetin, sulfur-containing compounds, and flavonoids, which may theoretically modulate immune and inflammatory responses, no robust clinical trials have demonstrated significant benefits in the context of lymphatic gland swelling. Most of the available evidence remains anecdotal or based on historical usage patterns rather than systematic research. As such, while onions are recognized for general health-promoting effects in traditional medicine, their application for swollen glands should be considered complementary and not a substitute for medical evaluation and treatment of underlying causes.

More about onion
More about Glands (swollen lymph)

Other ingredients used for Glands (swollen lymph)

Other health conditions supported by onion

Products containing onion