Onions May Hold the Key to Anti-Aging!
Researchers, led by Kim and team, have conducted a study that links eating onions to potential anti-aging benefits. They looked at different parts of the onion, like the husk, peels, oil, and fermented extract, and used two methods: one with older rodents and another using cells and enzymes in a lab [1].
The study found that extracts from the peel of Allium cepa, the onion, have antioxidants that can protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation. This means they can help fight free radicals and other harmful substances, keeping our skin healthier and possibly slowing down aging.
Other studies also showed that the husk and peels of onions are excellent sources of antioxidants [2]. These components help combat free radicals, which can be harmful to our bodies. When given to aged rats for several days, onion husk extract improved the antioxidant systems in the liver and brain [1].
But that’s not all! Onion peel extract also showed antibacterial effects against harmful bacteria on the skin, and it inhibited enzymes that play a role in skin aging. Onion oil, when given to older rats, improved their liver and kidney health, balanced their protein levels, and even increased testosterone [3].
The researchers also explored fermented onion extract, which was found to be effective in reducing melanin production and preventing wrinkles caused by UVB radiation [4]. This suggests that onion extract could be used as an anti-aging agent and for treating skin conditions related to pigmentation.
In summary, these studies highlight the exciting potential of onions as a natural way to fight aging and protect our skin. So, don’t be surprised if you start seeing more onion-based skincare products in the future!
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References:
[1] Kim, J.E.; Kim, A.R.; Kim, M.J.; Park, S.N. Antibacterial, Antioxidative and Anti-aging Effects of Allium Cepa Peel Extracts. Appl. Chem. Eng. 2011, 22, 178–184
[2] Chernukha, I.; Fedulova, L.; Vasilevskaya, E.; Kulikovskii, A.; Kupaeva, N.; Kotenkova, E. Antioxidant Effect of Ethanolic Onion (Allium cepa) Husk Extract in Ageing Rats. Saudi J. Biol. Sci. 2021, 28, 2877–2885
[3] Abdel-reheim, E.S.; Abdel-Hafeez, H.A.-H. Onion and its active constituents against aging. Egypt. J. Biochem. Mol. Biol. 2014, 32, 206–219
[4] Jeong, E.J.; Jegal, J.; Jung, Y.-S.; Chung, K.W.; Chung, H.Y.; Yang, M.H. Fermented Onions Extract Inhibits Tyrosinase and Collagenase-1 Activities as a Potential New Anti–Photoaging Agent. Nat. Prod. Commun. 2017, 12, 1934578X1701200711