Onion

(Onion)
Sanskrit: पलाण्डु • Botanical: Allium cepa Linn.

Palandu (Onion) is one of the most universally used vegetables in Indian cooking. It is pungent when raw, sweet when cooked. It is heavy, oily and hot. It strengthens the body and is considered aphrodisiac. It pacifies Vata. Different varieties — white, red and pink. It is used in virtually all Indian preparations. Verse: 63.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Quercetin (a flavonoid), volatile oil, sugars
Also Known As
English: Onion
Sanskrit: पलाण्डु, सुकन्द
Hindi: प्याज

What is Onion (Palandu / पलाण्डु)?

Palandu (Onion) is one of the most universally used vegetables in Indian cooking. It is pungent when raw, sweet when cooked. It is heavy, oily and hot. It strengthens the body and is considered aphrodisiac. It pacifies Vata. Different varieties — white, red and pink. It is used in virtually all Indian preparations. Verse: 63.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 9

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac — strong)
  • Balya (strengthening)
  • Deepana (appetizer)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Onion by Condition

Explore how Onion is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Onion for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.