Did you know that onion poultices have always been used to relieve
chest congestion? Onions have a long history for their healing benefits.
A poultice is simply the mashed herb secured in some fabric and placed
over the area of congestion on the body. The skin absorbs the medicinal
properties quickly and more easily than through digestion.
Onion
poultices are time tested herbal remedies and treatments for chest
congestion and other symptoms of colds and flu. A poultice is simple and
easy to make. The onion poultice is a powerful home remedy you can use
for your whole family. And, onions are readily available and affordable!
How to Make an Onion Poultice:
Chop
an onion into small bits. Let it set for a few minutes to draw out the
powerful medicinal properties. The onion can be used raw or it can be
sautéed gently. Put the chopped onion in the center of a square of
fabric. You can use flannel, an old t-shirt or a pillowcase. Fold the
fabric over and roll or fold the edges to make a 'hem'. Secure the edges
with safety pins to keep the onion bits from falling out.
Place
the poultice on the patient's chest or soles of the feet. The sole of
the foot quickly absorbs herbal treatments, in fact, some people rub
ointments like Vick's on the feet when they are sick. You can also place
the poultice on sore joints and behind the ear for an ear infection.
Check your patient every 15-30 minutes to make sure that there's not any
skin irritation.
