UNVEILING THE TRUTHS BEHIND SOME MYTHS AS THEY CONCERN OUR VISION AND EYE HEALTH PART 2

We are debunking the myth that “ONIONS CAN CURE EYE PROBLEMS.”

Do you believe it? Is this true or false??
Over the years, we have heard that onions offer numerous health benefits for our bodies, and this assertion is indeed accurate. When consumed in appropriate quantities, onions provide a range of advantages to our bodies, including their anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Therefore, onions are beneficial.

However, get this: some people have taken the use of onions to the next level by placing onions directly on their eyes and a step further by applying them directly to their eyes to cure infections and inflammation. Can you imagine that? This practice has evolved into a cultural norm in this part of the world (region). Additionally, there exists a belief that onions can alleviate convulsions in children. As a result, when a child experiences convulsions due to fever, onions are sliced and placed on the child’s eyes.

Here’s the fascinating part: it may seem like onions are working magic on the eyes because this approach may appear effective. However, it is not the onions themselves doing the trick. Importantly, it is all about brain stimulation. Let us clarify why it may seem like onions are responsible for healing the child.

When a child experiences convulsions due to a high fever, the brain undergoes shock, potentially causing the child to lose consciousness. Consistent sensory stimulation is necessary (i.e., to cause nerve stimulation strong enough to sustain brain activity) to prevent a complete brain shutdown. The cornea, a transparent bulge in front of the eye’s pupil, only visible when observing someone from the side, contains exposed nerve endings. Another area housing exposed nerve endings is the teeth, the anus, and the area beneath fingernails. It explains the heightened sensitivity and pain experienced when these areas are injured or inflamed.

Thus, applying onions to the eyes generates sensory stimulation, maintaining the brain’s activity, similar to placing a spoon between one’s teeth to prevent the teeth from clenching during a convulsion. Mind-blowing, right? Imagine biting a silver spoon with your teeth; the feeling experienced is usually intense. Hence, a child undergoing convulsions may revive with onions in their eyes. Now, should this be a practice? Does this practice have effects on the eyes?

IS THIS PRACTICE COMMENDABLE, AND DOES IT HAVE ADVERSE EFFECTS ON THE EYES?

But hold on, there’s a twist as the answer entails a resounding “No” to endorsing this practice and a definitive “Yes” to acknowledging its harmful effects on the eyes. Several adverse effects may result, including destroying the eye’s normal flora (beneficial microorganisms), rendering the eyes susceptible to frequent infections. Furthermore, it can lead to severe allergic reactions, inducing frequent eye rubbing, potentially affecting the shape of the cornea (astigmatism) and thus affecting vision. Frequent stimulation with onions may lead to the destruction of nerves within the cornea, possibly resulting in Neurotropic cornea, a condition characterized by diminished corneal sensitivity. And numerous other effects.

In conclusion, it’s time to set the record straight. Do not apply onions directly to the eyes. Instead, savor them in your meals by consuming raw onions or adding them to your diet. Furthermore, convince people against this method, as the effects may not manifest immediately but are typically long-term.

If you or someone you know has been following this practice, schedule a routine eye examination at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTER (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja, as it is essential to assess the state of your vision and eyes.
We will conclude here for today and continue this series in our next post. Please send in your inquiries and concerns via the comment section.

TREVEC CARES!!!