Cloves and Onion –A Timeless Tradition with Modern Benefits
For generations, cloves and onion have been trusted in traditional kitchens and home remedies across Asia and the Middle East. Long before modern medicine, grandmothers would simmer onions with cloves to ease coughs, soothe digestion, and strengthen immunity.Today, science supports many of these traditional uses. Onions are rich in antioxidants like quercetin and sulfur compounds, while cloves contain eugenol — a powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compound. Together, they create a natural remedy that supports respiratory health, digestion, and overall immunity.Whether you’re fighting seasonal flu, soothing a sore throat, or simply boosting your wellness routine, this simple recipe may become your go-to home remedy.
Ingredients
1 medium onion (white or red), sliced
4–6 whole cloves
2 cups water
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for taste)
½ teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Onion
Peel and slice the onion into thin pieces.
Add Cloves
Add whole cloves directly to the pot with onion slices. (Traditionally, cloves are sometimes inserted into the onion.)
Boil
Pour 2 cups of water into a saucepan. Add onion and cloves.
Bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer
Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until water slightly reduces and turns light golden.
Strain & Serve
Strain the liquid into a cup.
Add honey and lemon if desired.
Drink warm.
Health Benefits
Boosts Immunity
Cloves have antimicrobial properties that help fight bacteria and viruses, while onions provide antioxidants that support immune function.
Relieves Cough & Sore Throat
The warm infusion soothes throat irritation and may help loosen mucus.
Supports Digestion
Cloves stimulate digestive enzymes, and onions promote gut-friendly bacteria.
Reduces Inflammation
Both ingredients contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce body aches and discomfort.
Natural Detox Support
Onions contain sulfur compounds that assist liver detoxification processes.
Helpful Tips
Drink once daily during cold/flu season.
For stronger effect, lightly crush cloves before boiling.
Best consumed warm — not too hot.
You can refrigerate for 24 hours and reheat gently.
Add a small piece of ginger for extra immune support.
Precautions
Not recommended in large amounts for pregnant women without medical advice.
People with low blood pressure should use moderately (cloves may lower BP).
Avoid if allergic to cloves.
Do not give strong clove infusions to very young children.
This is a supportive remedy, not a replacement for medical treatment.
Final Thoughts
Cloves and onion may seem simple, but their healing power has stood the test of time. This humble combination connects traditional wisdom with modern wellness science. Easy to prepare, affordable, and natural — it’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best remedies are already in your kitchen.