Palandu (Allium cepa)

Botanical Name: Allium cepa

Family: Amaryllidaceae (formerly Liliaceae)

Description: Palandu, commonly known as Onion, is a biennial herb that forms a bulb underground. It has hollow, tubular green leaves and a flowering stalk that can reach up to 1 meter in height. The flowers are small, white or pink, and are borne in a spherical umbel. The bulb, which is the edible part, is composed of fleshy, concentric layers that can be white, red, or yellow in color.

Occurrence: Palandu is cultivated worldwide and is native to Central Asia. In India, it is widely grown in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. It prefers well-drained soil and requires a temperate to tropical climate for optimal growth.

Chemical Constituents:

• Sulfur compounds (allicin, allyl propyl disulfide)
• Flavonoids (quercetin)
• Vitamins (A, C, B6)
• Minerals (calcium, potassium, phosphorus)
• Saponins
• Polyphenols
  
  

Guna (Properties):

• Rasa (Taste): Madhura (sweet), Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
• Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
  
  

Uses:

1. Digestive Health: Enhances digestion, treats indigestion, and promotes appetite.
2. Antimicrobial: Possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and pain.
4. Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative damage.
5. Cardiovascular Health: Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
6. Respiratory Health: Treats cough, asthma, and bronchitis.
7. Diuretic: Promotes urine production and relieves urinary tract infections.
   
   

Mode of Action: The digestive benefits of Palandu are attributed to its sulfur compounds and flavonoids, which stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gastrointestinal motility. Its antimicrobial properties, due to allicin and other sulfur compounds, help in fighting infections. The anti-inflammatory effects reduce inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory mediators. The antioxidant properties protect cells from oxidative stress, while its cardiovascular benefits include lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to its quercetin content. Palandu’s expectorant properties help in clearing respiratory congestion, and its diuretic action promotes urine production and relieves urinary tract infections.

Home Remedies:

1. For Digestive Health: Consume a small amount of raw onion with meals to enhance digestion and appetite.
2. For Respiratory Health: Prepare a decoction of onion slices and honey to relieve cough and respiratory congestion.
3. For Joint Pain and Inflammation: Apply a paste of crushed onion mixed with a little turmeric on the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. For Cardiovascular Health: Include raw onion in salads to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
5. For Urinary Health: Drink a decoction of onion slices boiled in water to relieve urinary tract infections.
   
   

Dosage:

• Raw: 1-2 small onions per day, included in the diet.
• Decoction: 50-100 ml, once or twice a day.
• Paste: Apply externally as needed.
  
  

Note: Palandu should be used under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, especially in individuals with known allergies or those taking medications for digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, or inflammatory conditions.

Palandu is a versatile and valuable herb in Ayurveda, known for its wide range of therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing digestive disorders, respiratory conditions, cardiovascular health, and promoting overall well-being. Its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic properties further enhance its value in maintaining overall health and well-being.