Can An Onion In Your Pocket Save You From Heatwaves? Truth Behind Jyotiraditya Scindia’s Viral Tip

At a time when large parts of India are battling extreme heat, a rather unusual tip has caught public attention. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently shared that he avoids using the AC in his car, even in 51-degree heat, and instead carries an onion in his pocket to cope with hot winds.

In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter), he even pulled out an onion from his pocket and told people, “Keep an onion in your pocket and stay safe from the heat.”

आधुनिक युग में सब ‘डब्बे’ लेकर घूम रहे हैं और संचार मंत्री… pic.twitter.com/K41QYKlDeq

— Jyotiraditya M. Scindia (@JM_Scindia) April 26, 2026

The statement quickly went viral, reviving an age-old belief many Indians have grown up hearing. But does this home remedy actually work?

Why Onion Is Linked

To Summer Health

Onions have long been a part of traditional summer diets in India—and for good reason. They are rich in water content and contain compounds like antioxidants, flavonoids (especially quercetin), and essential minerals. According to nutrition experts, consuming onions during summer can help:

• Support hydration
• Aid digestion
• Provide a mild cooling effect on the body
• Protect against oxidative stress caused by heat

In many households, raw onions are added to meals like salads, chutneys, or even eaten with simple dishes like dal and roti—especially during peak summer months.

Does It Actually Protect You From Heatwaves?

The idea of carrying an onion in your pocket is rooted more in traditional folklore than science. It is believed in some communities that onions can absorb heat or protect the body from loo (hot winds).

This belief likely comes from the cooling properties associated with eating onions—not from any proven external effect.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that simply carrying an onion in your pocket can protect you from heatstroke or extreme heat.

Heat-related illnesses occur when the body fails to regulate its internal temperature, not because of external factors that an onion can “absorb.”

Also Read: Just A Headache Or Heatstroke? Don’t Ignore These Common Symptoms In Summers

Medical experts emphasise that heatstroke is a serious condition caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, dehydration, and the inability of the body to cool itself.

What Actually Works In A Heatwave

Instead of relying on myths, doctors recommend proven ways to stay safe:

• Stay well-hydrated with water, ORS, or natural coolants
• Avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours
• Wear light, breathable clothing
• Use shade, fans, or cooling systems when needed
• Eat water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables

While onions are undoubtedly beneficial when included in your summer diet, carrying one in your pocket won’t shield you from extreme heat.

The viral tip may be rooted in tradition, but when it comes to something as serious as heatstroke, science-backed precautions, not folklore, are what truly keep you safe.