The onion (Allium cepa L.), white or red, belongs to the family of Liliaceae.

The onion contains flavonoids, very useful to the human body as robust antioxidants found in the outermost layers.

It should be eaten raw so as not to lose the healing properties of flavonoids and sulfur derivatives present in this vegetable.

Animal studies have shown the effectiveness of onion as an anticoagulant.

Human studies have found the usefulness of onion combined with other vegetables to prevent cardiovascular problems.

As an anti-inflammatory, a component of the onion, Onionin A found in the bulb, has been shown to perform an action to counteract inflammatory blood activity (1).

There would also appear to be an action to improve the balance of blood sugar.

It is recommended, along with garlic, shallots and chives to prevent prostate cancer (2).

The best known red onions in Italy are the red head of Tropea and Certaldo.

Red onion studies

References_____________________________________________________________________

(1) Fujiwara Y, Horlad H, Shiraishi D, Tsuboki J, Kudo R, Ikeda T, Nohara T, Takeya M, Komohara Y. Onionin A, a sulfur-containing compound isolated from onions, impairs tumor development and lung metastasis by inhibiting the protumoral and immunosuppressive functions of myeloid cells.  Mol Nutr Food Res. 2016 Nov;60(11):2467-2480. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201500995.

(2) Colli JL, Amling CL. Chemoprevention of prostate cancer: what can be recommended to patients?  Curr Urol Rep. 2009 May;10(3):165-71. Review.