Like its close cousins chives, garlic, leeks and scallions, onions is a member of the lily family, Liliaceae.

The active constituents of onion are sulphur compounds, such as allyl propyl disulphide and flavonoids, such as quercetin. Compounds from these two groups have multiple medicinal effects.

In cardiovascular diseases, cancer prevention, hyperlipedemia, Type 1 and 2 diabetes onion plays a good role. It may also help in asthma, cough, infection and hypertension.

Diabetic patients can take onions in any form, raw, cooked or fried. It is useful for your health, but it should be a part of your meals.