Chopping onions is a common kitchen task that can lead to tears, but do you know why? Onions, widely grown across 170 countries, are not only low in calories but also rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are versatile in various dishes, from salads to omelets, thanks to their unique flavor profile. However, the same compounds that make onions nutritious can also bring tears to your eyes.
Chemical Reactions Behind the Tears
Onions grow underground, where sulfur in the soil reacts with the growing onion to form amino acid sulfoxides. When an onion is chopped or bitten, these compounds are released, creating sulfenic acid. This acid then reacts with onion enzymes to produce syn-propanethial-S-oxide, a gas that causes eye irritation and tears. The concentration of enzymes varies among onion varieties, with white, yellow, and red onions containing more of the enzyme responsible for tear-inducing gas.
Eye Sensitivity and Tear Production
When the gas reaches your eyes, it triggers a reaction to flush out the irritant. Your eyes detect the harmful gas and respond by producing tears to wash it away. While chopping onions may cause temporary discomfort and tears, it is generally safe for your eyes and does not have long-term effects.
Preventing Onion-Induced Tears
If you want to avoid tearing up while chopping onions, there are a few strategies you can try. Some people wear protective goggles or cut onions in a bowl of water to reduce gas exposure. Using lubricating eye drops can also help dilute the irritant and minimize eye irritation. Although there have been discussions about genetically modifying onions to reduce tear-inducing enzymes, tear-free onions are not yet available commercially.
Next time you prepare a dish with onions, keep these tips in mind to minimize tears and discomfort. While onions add depth and flavor to your recipes, taking precautions can help you enjoy cooking without the side effect of watery eyes.
Stay tuned for more insights and tips on wellness and nutrition from Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Alternative Medical Systems?
Ayurveda acupuncture and homeopathy are the five alternative medical systems.
Acupuncture uses fine needles inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi (energy) throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic Medicine is an ancient system of health care based on balancing the three humors – air, fire, and water. It can be used to help with diet, exercise, herbs, massage, and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine is derived from the Greek words homoios meaning similar and pathos meaning disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. Homeopaths treat patients by prescribing small amounts of substances that produce similar symptoms to the ones experienced when the patient is sick.
Energy Healing is also known as Reiki, EFT, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch, and many others. This therapy is based in the belief we all have a connection to a universal life force called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch or intention to restore harmony between our spiritual, emotional, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants for therapeutic reasons. Aromatherapists believe certain smells can have a positive effect on mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is the most commonly used in aromatherapy.
What is holistic medical opposite?
Holistic medicine examines the whole person and all its aspects. It is based on the concept that any illness must have multiple causes and requires a combination of treatments for maximum effectiveness.
Holistic medicine physicians believe prevention is better then cure. They work closely with their patients to help them achieve optimal wellness.
They look for the root causes of disease to prevent them from returning. Holistic physicians consider the entire body and not merely the physical organs. They sometimes refer to “the whole body” as the entirety of their being.
This means they see beyond the skin and treat your body holistically. The doctor may recommend changes in diet, exercise, or lifestyle. The doctor may recommend meditation, yoga, massage, acupuncture or chiropractic treatment.
What is the difference in alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that is not commonly used by mainstream medical professionals, but has been proven to be beneficial for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional treatment. They can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
Both forms of medicine can be used but are not recommended by many doctors due to lack of evidence or safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM techniques are based in theories that have been around since thousands of years. Some of these therapies may work, according to clinical trials that have been conducted over the last 20 years.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Other studies suggest that acupuncture may improve symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Other CAM methods may have therapeutic effects on conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and rheumatoidarthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a consequence, more people turn to CAM practitioners for relief of common illnesses.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
What are alternative medicine examples?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments other than those considered by mainstream medicine to be useful for treating disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine may also refer not to scientific evidence but that have been successfully used in clinical practice. Examples of alternative medicine include meditation, yoga and aromatherapy.
Statistics
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Effects of Foot Reflexology on Depression and Hospital Anxiety in Older Females: A Randomized Controlled Study – PubMed
doi.org
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
How To
What is it that a holistic doctor does that a conventional doctor doesn’t do?
A holistic doctor offers more services than a traditional physician, such as a nutritionist and massage therapist, as well as naturopaths, homeopaths, and naturopaths.
Holistic doctors treat patients holistically. This means they take a holistic approach to treating their health concerns. This approach helps them identify underlying causes and work towards long-term wellness and preventative measures. Holistic doctors use natural remedies such as herbs and essential oils alongside conventional medicine to help treat illness. They also provide dietary advice and nutritional supplements to support healthy living.
Holistic doctors also offer therapies such as acupuncture and reflexology, reiki or shiatsu, yoga, meditation or craniosacral treatment, as well as hypnotherapy and hypnotherapy.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: Avoid Crying while Chopping Onions
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/immunity/lifestyle/avoiding-tears-from-onions/
Published Date: Sun, 25 Feb 2024 03:04:16 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Alternative Medical Systems?
Ayurveda acupuncture and homeopathy are the five alternative medical systems.
Acupuncture uses fine needles inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi (energy) throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic Medicine is an ancient system of health care based on balancing the three humors – air, fire, and water. It can be used to help with diet, exercise, herbs, massage, and meditation.
Homeopathic Medicine is derived from the Greek words homoios meaning similar and pathos meaning disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. Homeopaths treat patients by prescribing small amounts of substances that produce similar symptoms to the ones experienced when the patient is sick.
Energy Healing is also known as Reiki, EFT, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch, and many others. This therapy is based in the belief we all have a connection to a universal life force called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. Energy healers use touch or intention to restore harmony between our spiritual, emotional, and physical selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants for therapeutic reasons. Aromatherapists believe certain smells can have a positive effect on mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is the most commonly used in aromatherapy.
What is holistic medical opposite?
Holistic medicine examines the whole person and all its aspects. It is based on the concept that any illness must have multiple causes and requires a combination of treatments for maximum effectiveness.
Holistic medicine physicians believe prevention is better then cure. They work closely with their patients to help them achieve optimal wellness.
They look for the root causes of disease to prevent them from returning. Holistic physicians consider the entire body and not merely the physical organs. They sometimes refer to “the whole body” as the entirety of their being.
This means they see beyond the skin and treat your body holistically. The doctor may recommend changes in diet, exercise, or lifestyle. The doctor may recommend meditation, yoga, massage, acupuncture or chiropractic treatment.
What is the difference in alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that is not commonly used by mainstream medical professionals, but has been proven to be beneficial for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional treatment. They can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
Both forms of medicine can be used but are not recommended by many doctors due to lack of evidence or safety concerns.
There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.
Many CAM techniques are based in theories that have been around since thousands of years. Some of these therapies may work, according to clinical trials that have been conducted over the last 20 years.
A number of studies suggest that acupuncture may be able to relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Other studies suggest that acupuncture may improve symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Other CAM methods may have therapeutic effects on conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and rheumatoidarthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a consequence, more people turn to CAM practitioners for relief of common illnesses.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
What are alternative medicine examples?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments other than those considered by mainstream medicine to be useful for treating disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine as well homeopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, nutritional therapy and reiki.
Alternative medicine may also refer not to scientific evidence but that have been successfully used in clinical practice. Examples of alternative medicine include meditation, yoga and aromatherapy.
Statistics
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Effects of Foot Reflexology on Depression and Hospital Anxiety in Older Females: A Randomized Controlled Study – PubMed
doi.org
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving acupuncture for insomnia treatment
How To
What is it that a holistic doctor does that a conventional doctor doesn’t do?
A holistic doctor offers more services than a traditional physician, such as a nutritionist and massage therapist, as well as naturopaths, homeopaths, and naturopaths.
Holistic doctors treat patients holistically. This means they take a holistic approach to treating their health concerns. This approach helps them identify underlying causes and work towards long-term wellness and preventative measures. Holistic doctors use natural remedies such as herbs and essential oils alongside conventional medicine to help treat illness. They also provide dietary advice and nutritional supplements to support healthy living.
Holistic doctors also offer therapies such as acupuncture and reflexology, reiki or shiatsu, yoga, meditation or craniosacral treatment, as well as hypnotherapy and hypnotherapy.
