Raw onions are a staple in Indian households, adding flavour to salads, vegetables, and even street food. Rich in essential nutrients like sulphur, potassium, and zinc, they are known to clean blood vessels, reduce cholesterol, and boost immunity. However, despite these health benefits, many people avoid raw onions due to one common problem and that is bad breath. (News18 Hindi)
The strong smell that lingers after eating raw onion often makes people hesitant to consume it, especially before stepping out. This reluctance overshadows the many advantages onions bring to health and diet. (News18 Hindi)
One simple remedy to tackle the issue is soaking onions in lemon juice before eating them. Lemon neutralises the pungent compounds in onions, significantly reducing the strong odour. The process is quick, efficient, and easy to follow. (News18 Hindi)
Similarly, onions soaked in vinegar, a practice often seen in hotels and restaurants, lose much of their sharp smell. Vinegar not only reduces the odour but also enhances the flavour, making onions taste tangier and more appetising. (News18 Hindi)
Dr Vandana Upadhyay, Medical Officer at Government Ayurvedic Hospital, Ballia, explains, “If you happen to eat raw onion without any preparation, chewing a spoonful of fennel can help.” She adds that fennel contains aromatic oils that freshen the mouth, stimulate saliva production, and also aid digestion. (News18 Hindi)
Locals also suggest cardamom as an effective alternative. Shivkumar Singh, a resident of Ballia,Uttar Pradesh, says, “Chewing cardamom after eating onion instantly removes bad breath.” Cardamom’s natural antibacterial and cooling properties not only purify the breath but also soothe the digestive system. (News18 Hindi)
Experts highlight that cardamom goes beyond masking odour, it strengthens digestion and promotes a light, healthy stomach. Thus, it works as a two-in-one solution for both oral freshness and overall wellness. (News18 Hindi)
With these simple remedies the fear of onion-induced bad breath no longer stops anyone from enjoying raw onions. By adopting these practices, you can relish the flavour and reap the health benefits of onions without any hesitation. (News18 Hindi)
