My Grandmother Always Sticks Cloves in the Onion Here’s the Full Recipe
Introduction
This old traditional remedy is something many grandmothers used for decades. Sticking cloves into an onion may look simple, but together they create a powerful natural antibacterial and antiviral tool for your home.When cloves are inserted into an onion, the onion releases strong sulfur compounds and essential oils. The cloves release eugenol, a natural antiseptic. Together, they clean the air, boost immunity, reduce cough & cold symptoms, and keep insects away.
It works as:
A natural air purifier
A cold & flu remedy
A sore throat soother
An immunity booster
A home deodorizer
Below is the complete traditional method.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1 large onion (red or white)
8–12 whole cloves
Optional Add-ons (for stronger effect)
1 small piece of ginger (cut into tiny slits and inserted)
2–3 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon honey (if using for cough syrup)
1 lemon (if making a drink)
Instructions
For Air Purification / Room Freshener
Peel the outer thin skin of the onion (keep the onion whole).
Use a knife to make 8–12 small cuts around the surface.
Insert one clove into each cut, pushing gently so the clove stays inside.
Place the clove-studded onion:
On your bedside table
In your living room
Near windows
In the kitchen (to repel insects)
Replace with a fresh onion every 5–7 days.
For Cold, Cough & Flu Remedy (Onion-Clove Syrup)
Slice 1 onion into large pieces.
Insert 6–8 cloves into the pieces.
Place the onion pieces in a bowl or jar.
Add 1–2 tablespoons honey.
Cover and let it sit for 6–8 hours.
The onion will release a syrup that combines with honey.
Dosage:
Take 1 teaspoon of this syrup 2–3 times daily to soothe cough, sore throat & congestion.
For Immunity Tea
Cut 1 onion into halves.
Add 10 cloves, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 2 garlic cloves.
Add 2 cups water and boil for 10 minutes.
Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice after removing from heat.
Drink warm, once daily.
Tips
Red onions work best for cough & cold remedies.
Honey makes the onion syrup sweeter and easier to take.
For stronger air-purifying action, add 2–3 drops of eucalyptus oil near the onion (not on it).
Replace cloves when they lose smell (around 5 days).
Keep one onion with cloves in each frequently used room during flu season.
Benefits
Natural Air Purifier
Absorbs odors, bacteria, and airborne germs.
Repels Insects
Clove’s strong smell keeps flies and mosquitoes away.
Eases Cold, Cough & Congestion
Breaks mucus, soothes throat, reduces coughing.
Boosts Immunity
Onion + clove compounds improve natural defense.
Antibacterial & Antiviral
Destroys harmful microorganisms naturally.
Helps with Allergies & Sinus
Opens airways and reduces nasal congestion.
Precautions
Do not leave cut onions out for too long if using near food (they absorb bacteria).
People with acid reflux may feel discomfort—use smaller amounts.
Diabetics using the syrup should avoid too much honey.
Do not give raw onion remedy to children under 2 years.
Always use fresh onions—discard if moldy or dried out.
Final Thoughts
Sticking cloves into an onion is a simple, powerful, and time-tested home remedy passed down through generations. Whether you want cleaner air, relief from cough and cold, or a boost to your immunity, this natural combination works surprisingly well.