Why My Grandmother Always Puts a Nail in the Onion – A Surprising Old Trick! | May 17, 2025

Why My Grandmother Always Puts a Nail in the Onion – A Surprising Old Trick! 🧅✨

Introduction

Have you ever seen someone put a nail into an onion and wondered why? This traditional trick, passed down through generations, has a fascinating purpose that many people don’t know about!

The reason behind this simple yet effective hack might surprise you—it has practical, culinary, and even gardening benefits. Let’s explore why you might want to try it too!

1. Enriches the Onion with Iron 🏋️‍♂️

✅ A rusty iron nail releases iron into the onion when inserted
✅ Helps increase iron absorption in your diet
✅ Traditionally used to combat iron deficiency & anemia

💡 In some cultures, iron-infused onions were added to soups or broths to naturally boost iron levels!

2. Improves Soil & Boosts Plant Growth 🌱

✅ Onions absorb iron from the rusty nail, making them more nutrient-rich
✅ If you plant the onion, the iron in the soil helps strengthen plants & deter pests
✅ Helps prevent yellowing leaves caused by iron deficiency in soil

💡 Gardeners sometimes bury an iron nail near plants to naturally fertilize the soil!