The use of purple onions for health is probably a question many people ask. Because, this is a common ingredient often used to prepare Vietnamese dishes. Whether, in addition to the effect to increase the deliciousness and attractiveness of the dish, what are the health benefits of purple onions? Let's find the answer through this article!
What is purple onion, what are the characteristics?
Before going into learning about the uses of purple onion, let's take a look at a few things you need to know about this ingredient.
Purple onions are herbaceous plants, usually there are two types of large round bulbs and long small bulbs. When a purple onion is cut in half, the texture is layered like an onion. The reason it is called purple onion is because the outside of old bulbs has a characteristic dark purple color.
Figure 1: Characteristics of purple onion
Purple onions are grown in many areas of clay, sandy soil, and sandy soil. This tuber is abundant in Asian countries, including Vietnam. In our country, the most famous purple onions are grown in Vinh Chau (Soc Trang), Ly Son (Quang Ngai)...
Health benefits of red onions
In addition to helping dishes to smell and increase attractiveness, purple onions also have many great uses for human health.
Nutrition in purple onions
Onions contain many nutrients such as:
Vitamin C
Vitamin B6
Biotin
Chromium
Folic acid
Calcium
Fiber
... These are all very good substances for health
In addition, in purple onions, there are many highly active substances that are very effective against diseases. Not to mention are sulfuric, chromium, prostaglandin, phenoplast...
Health benefits of red onions
The characteristic of purple onion is that it has a pungent, slightly spicy taste. However, this material contains many minerals that are good for health. There have been studies showing that the active ingredients in purple onions have anti-clotting effects, anti-oxidants, prevent cardiovascular diseases... and many other effects.
Anti-inflammatory antibacterial
Purple onions have the ability to absorb bacteria in the air, clean and reduce the risk of infectious diseases caused by bacteria. In addition, they can also kill harmful bacteria such as E.coli, Salmonella, tuberculosis bacteria ..
In particular, the anti-inflammatory properties of shallots help loosen the airways, reduce symptoms of bronchitis and asthma.
Figure 2: Red onion has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
Support in the treatment of diabetes
Chromium found in shallots has been shown to have a cellular response in diabetics, lowering insulin and improving glucose levels effectively.
As a result, the patient will control the sugar level, helping to prevent the disease from getting worse.
Anti-osteoporosis
Compounds in red onion have the effect of preventing activities that can destroy bones, effectively preventing osteoporosis.
Increase physiological strength
Not everyone knows, purple onions also have an effect on men's physiological health. Research has shown that purple onions are likened to an aphrodisiac, protecting the prostate gland for men. Therefore, regularly using this food at meals will help improve the quality of sex.
Reduce blood fat
Diallyl sulfide in red onion has the effect of reducing blood fat and preventing atherosclerosis. Therefore, this is considered an ideal food to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Figure 3: Red onion has the ability to reduce blood fat and prevent cardiovascular disease
Cancer Prevention
Research shows that the chemicals in red onions such as disulphide, trisulphide, cepaene, quercetin can reduce inflammation and prevent cancer. In particular, the fructo-oligosaccharides found in shallots also stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon, reducing the risk of tumor development.
Improve heart health
Another great effect of purple onions is that it enhances heart health. The quercetin in shallots will help eliminate plaque formation, reduce the risk of heart attacks, and prevent hardening of the arteries. And yet, the sulfur-containing compounds in red onions also have anti-clotting effects.
Enhance brain function
Gamma-aminobutyric acid is known to be the central neurotransmitter present in purple onions. This substance directly affects the brain, helping to enhance function, relieve stress and fatigue.
In addition to the great health effects, purple onions are also known for their ability to deodorize and repel insects. Because purple onions have a strong, pungent smell, it will hurt the sense of smell of insects, possibly making them disappear. A small tip for you if you are being affected by harmful insects that affect your life. Cut a few strands of red onion and place it by your bed. Thus, mosquitoes, cockroaches... will not dare to come near.
Note when using purple onions
Although it is an ingredient with many health benefits, there are a few notes to keep in mind when using red onions. In addition, you should also know who should not eat purple onions, how to eat to maximize the effect.
Figure 4: There are a few things to keep in mind when using purple onions
Purple onions, though good, should only be eaten in moderation. On average, you should only use 1 purple onion/day for stir-fried dishes, roasting meat... If for treatment, you can eat 1-2 bulbs/day.
Purple onions are hot, according to oriental medicine, they should be avoided for people who are yang, hot and fiery.
Women with early menstruation, heavy periods should also avoid eating a lot of onions
Do not use onions with honey
People with high blood pressure should also limit eating onions
Purple onions should be stored in a cool place
Above is the information you need to know about the use of purple onions for health as well as the notes to use to ensure the best. Hopefully, this article has helped you gain more useful knowledge about ingredients commonly used in cooking Vietnamese dishes. Don't forget to visit organica.vn for more dishes and cooking tips!