‘Sleep with onions on your feet’: Viral ‘detox hack’ claims to cleanse your body and boost gut health overnight; experts weighs in

So, is it actually possible for onions or any food placed on the skin to remove toxins or influence internal organs?

Dr Jagadish Hiremath, Public Health Intellectual, tells indianexpress.com, “There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that placing onions on your feet can draw out toxins or influence the function of internal organs. The skin serves as a strong protective barrier and does not allow substances like plant compounds or food molecules to penetrate deep enough to reach the bloodstream or internal systems.” 

He adds, “While onions contain antioxidants and sulfur compounds that may have health benefits when consumed, applying them externally on the feet will not have any detoxifying or anti-inflammatory effect on the body. The concept of ‘detoxing’ through the skin is more of a myth than a medical reality. The body’s natural detoxification happens through organs such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, and skin itself in the form of sweat, but not through external absorption of foods.”

Is there any biological connection between topical exposure to plant compounds and gut or immune function?

Dr Hiremath stresses that there is no known biological mechanism linking topical exposure to plant compounds with gut microbiome balance or immune function. “Gut health and immunity are influenced by what we eat, our lifestyle, sleep, stress, and overall hygiene, not by what is applied externally. For the immune system or gut flora to benefit from nutrients or bioactive compounds in foods like onions, those compounds must be digested, absorbed, and metabolised internally. Simply placing onions on the feet does not allow for any meaningful absorption that could alter gut bacteria or immune activity,” notes the expert. 

 

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Differentiating between harmless home remedies and potentially misleading or ineffective health claims

“Natural detox or quick-fix trends gain traction because they often promise simple, effortless solutions to complex health concerns,” explains Dr Hiremath, adding that people are increasingly drawn to natural remedies and traditional wisdom, but viral social media content can blur the line between harmless tips and misleading health claims. 

The most effective way to evaluate such claims is to seek scientific backing from credible medical sources or research studies. Harmless home remedies, such as using natural ingredients for skincare or soothing a sore throat, are fine if they cause no harm. However, anything that promises to “detox,” “reset,” or “cure” the body overnight should be approached with scepticism. “Consulting a qualified healthcare professional before trying new health hacks is always advisable,” adds Dr Hiremath.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.