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| - Quick Take
A social media video claims that onion juice can instantly cure stomach aches. We did the fact check and termed this claim as mostly false.
The Claim
A YouTube video featuring social media influencer Kusha Kapila suggests that drinking onion juice can instantly fix stomach aches. In the video, she claims this remedy has worked for her since childhood and describes it as “magic”.
Fact Check
Can onion juice instantly relieve stomach aches?
Not really. Onion juice has been part of traditional remedies for digestive issues, but there is no scientific proof that it can cure stomach aches instantly. Stomach pain can result from many causes, like indigestion, gas, food intolerance, or infections, and addressing these often takes time.
Onions do contain beneficial compounds, such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, antibacterial activity and prebiotics, which support gut health over time. However, these effects are gradual and not immediate. Research on onion juice specifically for stomach aches is limited, and no reliable evidence suggests it can provide instant relief. The idea of a quick fix oversimplifies the complexity of digestive problems.
We spoke with Dr Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant & HOD Gastroenterology Hepatology & Therapeutic Endoscopy, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, to learn whether onion juice can fix stomach aches. He clarifies, “Onion juice may have some mild digestive benefits due to its anti-inflammatory properties, but it is not a quick or guaranteed remedy for stomach aches. Stomach pain can have various causes, such as indigestion, gastritis, or even infections. It’s important to identify the underlying cause of the pain and seek appropriate treatment from a healthcare provider rather than relying on home remedies alone.”
We also reached out to Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, and General Physician from Navi Mumbai, for her expert insights. She says, “Onion juice contains compounds that may support digestion, but there is no scientific evidence proving it can instantly relieve stomach aches. Stomach pain can stem from various causes, such as indigestion, gas, or infections, and addressing the underlying issue is crucial. Relying solely on onion juice may delay proper treatment for more serious conditions.”
Similarly, some people claim that onions can flush toxins from the body, but this is false.
What are the potential digestive benefits of onion juice?
Onions are rich in antioxidants like quercetin and sulphur compounds, which may contribute to better gut health. These compounds have mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that could help reduce symptoms of bloating or gas over time. Additionally, onions contain prebiotics, which promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. These properties may improve overall digestion when consumed regularly, but they do not provide a magical, immediate solution for stomach pain.
On a related note, social media posts also promote onion juice for dissolving gallstones and removing wrinkles, but these aren’t supported by science at present.
Could onion juice cause harm instead of relief?
Yes, consuming onion juice could potentially worsen symptoms for some individuals. Onion juice is highly acidic and can irritate the stomach lining, particularly if consumed on an empty stomach. This can lead to nausea, heartburn, or even vomiting in sensitive individuals. People with conditions like acid reflux, gastritis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may find their symptoms aggravated by raw onion juice. It’s important to approach such remedies with caution, especially if you have a pre-existing digestive condition.
How can you effectively treat stomach aches?
The treatment for stomach aches depends on the underlying cause. For mild discomfort caused by indigestion or gas, simple remedies like drinking warm water, consuming ginger or peppermint tea, or taking over-the-counter antacids can be helpful. Probiotics, found in foods like yoghurt, may also help in digestion over time. However, if the stomach pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or blood in stools, it is essential to seek medical attention. These could be signs of more serious conditions, such as ulcers, infections, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Why is the claim of “instant cure” problematic?
The idea of an instant cure is unrealistic. Remedies, even natural ones, take time to work. Claims like this can create false hopes and delay proper treatment. For example, relying only on onion juice for severe stomach pain could mean ignoring a serious condition that needs medical attention.
Also, every person’s body is different—a concept called bio-individuality. What works for one person might not work for another and could even cause harm. Natural remedies can help, but they should never replace proper medical care.
THIP Media Take
The claim that onion juice can instantly cure stomach aches is mostly false. Onion juice may have some digestive benefits, but it does not provide an instant cure for stomach aches. The claim exaggerates its effectiveness and speed, making it misleading. To treat stomach pain one needs to identify the cause and use appropriate remedies or medical care when necessary.
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