Garlic and onion peels are often discarded without a second thought, but they are packed with nutrients and health benefits that you don’t want to miss.
These humble outer layers contain powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can enhance your well-being and offer natural remedies for a variety of ailments.
From promoting heart health to boosting immunity, here’s why you should hold on to garlic and onion peels and how to use them effectively.
Nutritional Powerhouse: What’s in Garlic and Onion Peels?
Garlic and onion peels contain a variety of beneficial compounds, including:
- Quercetin: A powerful flavonoid that acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, primarily found in onion peels.
- Allicin Precursors: Present in garlic skins, these compounds offer antimicrobial and immune-boosting benefits.
- Fiber: Both garlic and onion peels are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion.
- Vitamin A, C, and E: Found in the outer layers, these vitamins support immune function and skin health.
- Sulfur Compounds: These compounds in garlic and onion peels support liver detoxification and reduce inflammation.
Health Benefits of Garlic and Onion Peels
1. Boosts Immune System
The peels of garlic and onions are rich in antioxidants, including quercetin and vitamin C, which help strengthen the immune system. These antioxidants fight free radicals and protect the body from infections.
How It Helps:
Using garlic and onion peel-infused tea or broth regularly can give your immune system a natural boost, especially during cold and flu season.
2. Supports Heart Health
Quercetin, found in abundance in onion peels, is known to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation, promoting cardiovascular health.
How It Helps:
Incorporate onion peels into soups and broths to take advantage of their heart-healthy properties.
3. Reduces Inflammation
Both garlic and onion peels have anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can be particularly beneficial for people suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
How It Helps:
Make a tea from onion and garlic peels to relieve inflammation and joint pain naturally.
4. Promotes Healthy Digestion
The fiber content in garlic and onion peels promotes healthy digestion by improving bowel movements and preventing constipation. The sulfur compounds in the peels also support liver function, aiding detoxification.
How It Helps:
Use garlic and onion peels in broth recipes to improve digestion and support your body’s natural detox system.
5. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Studies suggest that the antioxidants in onion peels can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.
How It Helps:
Consuming a simple infusion of onion peels regularly may help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
6. Improves Skin Health
Garlic and onion peels are packed with vitamins like A, C, and E, which are essential for healthy skin. These vitamins help prevent oxidative damage, promote collagen production, and keep the skin hydrated.
How It Helps:
Apply a cooled garlic or onion peel-infused tea to your skin as a natural toner to improve complexion and reduce blemishes.
7. Fights Infections and Colds
Garlic peels contain allicin precursors, which provide antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Onion peels also have antimicrobial properties, making both peels effective in fighting infections and common colds.
How It Helps:
Inhale steam infused with garlic and onion peels to relieve congestion, or drink the tea to soothe sore throats.
How to Use Garlic and Onion Peels
Here are some simple ways to use garlic and onion peels to harness their health benefits:
1. Garlic and Onion Peel Tea
A simple tea made from these peels can boost your immunity and support digestion.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 garlic peels
- 2-3 onion peels
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil the water and add the peels.
- Simmer for 10 minutes and strain.
- Add honey if desired and enjoy.
2. Infused Broth
Add garlic and onion peels to your soups, stews, or bone broth. They will infuse the dish with nutrients and flavor, while the peels can be strained out before serving.
3. Skin Toner
Brew a strong infusion of onion peels, let it cool, and use it as a natural skin toner to reduce inflammation and brighten your complexion.
4. Compost Booster
Even if you don’t want to consume them, garlic and onion peels make an excellent addition to your compost pile. They enrich the soil with essential nutrients, promoting healthy plant growth.
Precautions and Tips
- Wash Thoroughly: Always wash garlic and onion peels well to remove any dirt or pesticides before using them.
- Moderation: While these peels are beneficial, use them in moderation to avoid digestive discomfort.
- Allergic Reactions: If you have an allergy to garlic or onions, avoid using the peels.
Garlic and onion peels are far more than kitchen waste—they’re packed with powerful nutrients that offer numerous health benefits.