31.01.2025

My grandmother always puts a nail in the onion: I was surprised when I found out why.

By Lesia

My Grandmother Always Puts a Nail in the Onion – Here’s Why! 🤯

At first, it might sound strange, but sticking a nail into an onion is an old-school trick that actually has some surprising benefits! Your grandmother knew something that most people don’t! Here’s why this hack is worth trying.


1️⃣ Increases Iron Absorption in Food 💪

Onions are naturally acidic, and when you insert an iron nail into them, a chemical reaction occurs. The acidity helps release iron from the nail, enriching the onion and whatever dish you cook with it.

✔ Perfect for people with iron deficiency (anemia)
✔ Natural way to boost iron levels in food
✔ Used in traditional cooking to fortify meals with iron

💡 How to do it?
1️⃣ Use a clean, rust-free iron nail (boil it in water first to sterilize it).
2️⃣ Insert the nail into a whole onion and leave it for a few hours or overnight.
3️⃣ Remove the nail and use the onion in soups, stews, or sauces.


2️⃣ Natural Pest Repellent 🦟

This trick is also used in gardens! A nail inside an onion releases sulfuric compounds that repel insects and pests naturally. Place them around your plants to keep bugs away.


3️⃣ Extends Onion Freshness 🌱

Some people believe that placing a nail in an onion helps slow down sprouting, keeping it fresh longer.


Does This Actually Work? 🤔

Yes! This method has been used for generations, especially in countries where natural iron supplements were hard to find. It’s an easy and effective home remedy for boosting iron intake and has surprising gardening benefits too!

Would you try this trick? Let me know what you think! 😊🔩🧅