Many of us throw away onion and garlic skins, yet these seemingly useless remnants have hidden health advantages and practical use. I’ve discovered these secrets thanks to my grandmother’s wisdom, and now I always keep garlic peels handy. Here’s why you might want to start saving them too!
1. Packed with Nutrients
Onion and garlic peels are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The outer layers of onions are notably high in quercetin, a potent antioxidant that lowers blood pressure and fights inflammation. Garlic peels contain phenylpropanoids, which improve immunity and are anti-inflammatory.
So next time, instead of throwing them away, consider adding them to your diet or natural remedies!
2. Make a Nutritious Broth
One simple way to use onion and garlic skins is by boiling them to create a nutrient-rich broth. This is a secret my grandmother swears by!
How to Make the Broth:
Add the peels to a pot of water, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
Strain out the peels and use this broth as a base for soups, stews, or rice.
The flavor is subtle yet rich, and it’s a great way to add an extra nutritional boost to your dishes.
3. Boost Your Skin Health
The antioxidants that are found in onion and garlic skins can be beneficial for the skin as well. Make a simple skin toner by boiling the peels, letting the liquid cool, and applying it with a cotton pad. This toner can help to reduce redness and acne, giving your skin a healthy glow.
4. Natural Garden Fertilizer
If you love gardening, onion and garlic skins can be turned into a natural fertilizer. The nutrients help to enrich the soil and keep pests away.
How to Use:
Soak the peels in water for a day or two.
Pour the nutrient-rich water onto your plants or mix it into your compost.
This can give your plants a natural boost without harmful chemicals.
5. Hair Care Secret
If you are sad about your dull or weak hair, onion and garlic skins might help! Boil them and use the strained water as a hair rinse. The nutrients in the peels nourish the scalp, promoting stronger, shinier hair.
6. Natural Remedy for Coughs and Colds
This tea can help relieve sore throats and reduce cold symptoms. The skins contain compounds that boost immunity and help soothe respiratory issues.
How to Make Onion & Garlic Peel Tea
Boil the peels in water for 10-15 minutes.
Strain and add a little honey for flavor.
Drinking this tea during cold season can give your immune system a little extra help.
Conclusion
From kitchen to garden, onion and garlic skins offer a lot of benefits that shouldn’t be wasted. So, before tossing them out, think twice and consider these creative uses! Keeping onion and garlic peels is an easy way to make the most of nature’s gifts—something my grandmother would say is worth remembering.