Alleviating ailments using ingredients you have in your home is a great way to save money and promote natural healing. There is one thing you probably always stock in your cupboards—but may not know about use it for fighting colds, earaches and itchiness—is none other than the onion. The onion contains a flavonoid (a pigment) called quercetin, which is a superpowered antioxidant.

So, the next time you reach for an onion to enhance the flavor of your dinner dish, consider reserving a portion to unlock its potential in alleviating these bothersome ailments. Embracing the power of the onion in your home remedies might just be the key to some health remedies you can solve at home:

Soothe Burns/Prevent Scarring

If you accidentally burn your finger while cooking dinner, the natural pain reliever you need may be right at your fingertips. An onion might help ease the sting. Onions also have antiseptic properties that can help prevent your skin from becoming infected and promote quick healing. Try applying onion juice a few times per day for several weeks to see the reduction of scarring.

Ditch the Itch

Itchy bug bites are a major pain! With springtime in the air, mosquitoes are likely knocking at your door. Ditch the itches by rubbing a sliced onion on the sides of the bite. Relief from itchiness is thanks to the onion’s sulfur content.