Admit it, the crisp, flaky outer scales of the onions you use in soups, salads, and casseroles usually end up in the trash (or perhaps more usefully, the compost bin).
Recent research confirms that the outer skins of onions provide an exceptionally rich source of plant compounds called flavonoids, especially the powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, quercetin.
# Throw them in soups and slow cookers: Over 500,000 tons of onion waste is thrown out each year in the European Union and this bulb, including all its skin, is nutritious! Its full of fiber and phenolic compounds which help to prevent coronary disease.
# Onion skins are known to help cure leg cramps. Boil the skins in water for 10-20 minutes, making an infusion. Drain the skins from the water and drink it as tea before bed. It might take a week or so to take full effect.
# Onion skins make a great hair dye, turning it a beautiful golden brown. Oh, and did you know onions promote hair growth.
# Dye your Easter eggs a beautiful purple color with onion skins. This recipe shows you how to make pretty imprints, too.
# Life Hacker suggests you hold on to the onion skin while chopping onions to protect your fingers from your knife. You have to see the picture to get it. Great hack! Then throw the skins in your freezer jar for future soup stock.