Onion Extract May Boost Diabetes Drug Effect 4X, Says New Study

Last Updated:June 05, 2025, 13:14 IST

Recent research shows onion extract can reduce blood sugar levels by up to 50%. Scientists say it may be an effective, natural way to help control diabetes

The number of diabetes patients is rising rapidly across the globe, and India is no exception. Over 10 crore people in the country are currently living with diabetes, while around 15 crore more are at high risk. This lifestyle disease, once diagnosed, requires lifelong management of blood sugar levels. Most patients rely on daily medication or insulin, which can be costly. However, scientists have now found a simpler and more affordable way to help manage blood sugar and that is onion extract.

According to a report by British website Express, recent research has revealed that onion extract may significantly reduce blood sugar levels. Scientists claim that consuming onion extract can lower blood sugar by up to 50%. When taken alongside prescribed diabetes medicines, it can offer four times greater benefit. Moreover, it may also help in reducing cholesterol levels. The combination of onion extract and the common diabetes drug metformin showed promising results, and importantly, no side effects were reported.

In the study, researchers gave diabetic rats onion extract in doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg per kilogram of body weight. The 400 mg/kg dose reduced their blood sugar by 50%, while the 600 mg/kg dose showed a 35% drop. Cholesterol levels also dropped significantly.

While this study was conducted on animals, scientists are hopeful that similar results could be achieved in humans. They believe onion extract could be one of the most accessible and affordable supplements for diabetes care.

However, experts advise caution. This potential remedy should only be tried under the supervision of a medical professional. Excessive consumption of onions can lead to other health issues.

Diabetic patients must continue to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and follow a balanced diet. Any new treatment should be taken only after consulting a doctor.

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