Discover this time-honored traditional remedy that has been passed down through generations for supporting circulation and providing comfort to tired, aching legs. This simple yet effective herbal oil combines the natural properties of purple onion skins and garlic with nourishing olive oil to create a soothing topical treatment. While modern medicine offers many solutions, this gentle, natural approach reflects the wisdom of traditional healing practices that focused on supporting the body’s natural healing processes through carefully prepared herbal preparations.
Ingredients
- 6 purple onion skins (red onion peels)
- 6 cloves fresh garlic
- 200ml (6.8 fl oz/3/4 cup) olive oil (or vegetable oil, though olive oil is preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare onion skins: Carefully peel 6 purple onions by hand without using a knife. Collect only the outer papery skins. If you don’t have a cloth bag, place the skins in a freezer bag and gently crush them to break them into smaller pieces.
- Fill jar with onion skins: Place the crushed onion skins into a clean glass jar.
- Prepare garlic: Peel and finely chop 6 fresh garlic cloves.
- Add garlic to jar: Add the chopped garlic to the jar with the onion skins.
- Add olive oil: Pour 200ml of olive oil over the onion skins and garlic, ensuring everything is covered.
- Set up double boiler: Place a clean cloth in the bottom of a pot to prevent the jar from cracking. Fill the pot with water.
- Heat the mixture: Place the jar in the pot and turn heat to medium. When water begins to boil, reduce to low heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Rest period: Turn off heat and let the jar sit in the hot water for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cool and strain: Allow the mixture to cool completely, then strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Infusion period: Store the strained oil in a dark, cool place (not refrigerated) for 24 hours before first use.
Application Method:
- Apply the oil to affected areas and gently massage for 15 minutes
- Wrap the area loosely with plastic wrap, then cover with a clean cloth
- Leave wrapped for 2 hours
- Store the oil in a dark, cool place between uses
- Use consistently for one month as suggested in traditional practice
Time and Storage Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Infusion Time: 24 hours
- Storage: Up to 3 months in a dark, cool place
- Suggested Use Period: 1 month of regular application
Traditional Benefits and Properties
This traditional herbal oil combines ingredients that have been valued in folk medicine for their potential supportive properties. Purple onion skins contain natural compounds that traditional healers believed supported skin health and circulation. Garlic has been treasured across cultures for its potential to support overall wellness when used topically. Olive oil serves as both a carrier and a nourishing base that may help soften and moisturize skin while allowing the herbal components to be absorbed. This preparation method, using gentle heat and prolonged infusion, follows traditional techniques designed to extract beneficial plant compounds while maintaining their integrity. While this remedy reflects generations of traditional use, individual results may vary, and it should be viewed as a complementary approach alongside professional medical care for circulatory concerns.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Varicose veins and knee pain can be symptoms of serious medical conditions that require professional medical attention. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions, take medications, or are pregnant or nursing. Do not discontinue prescribed treatments without medical supervision. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical care.