Introduction

When a stuffy nose or nagging cough keeps you awake, even the coziest bed can feel uncomfortable. Among the many home remedies making the rounds online, the onion-in-sock method has gained surprising attention. Though it may sound strange, many people claim it helps ease congestion and promote better sleep. This natural remedy is easy to prepare, gentle enough for most ages, and uses ingredients already in your kitchen. Here’s how to try it for yourself.

Ingredients

1 medium yellow or red onion

1 pair of clean cotton socks

Optional: a few drops of eucalyptus or lavender essential oil

Optional: soft tissue or thin cloth to prevent skin irritation

Instructions

Prepare the onion:
Peel the onion and slice it into thick rounds or half-moons. This releases the beneficial compounds that many believe help with congestion.

Optional layer:
If you have sensitive skin, wrap one or two onion slices in a thin tissue or cloth to reduce direct contact.

Place onions in socks:
Slip the onion slices into the arches of your socks—the area under your feet said to correspond with reflexology points linked to the respiratory system.

Add essential oils (optional):
A drop of lavender or eucalyptus inside the sock (not directly on the skin) can add soothing aromatherapy.

Wear overnight:
Put on the socks, get comfortable, and sleep while the onion does its thing.

Discard in the morning:
Toss the onions after one use and wash your feet if any scent remains.

Serving and Storage Tips

Use fresh onions only—once cut, they lose potency quickly.

Do not reuse the same onion slices for another night.

Store unused whole onions in a cool, dry area until needed.

If the scent bothers you, place a small bowl of baking soda or a candle in the room to help neutralize it.

Variations

Onion poultice:
Warm sliced onions in a cloth and place the bundle on the chest for 10–15 minutes to help ease coughs.

Onion and honey syrup: