✅ Onions are naturally acidic, which helps break down iron from the nail.
✅ When a rusty iron nail is inserted into an onion, it releases iron ions into the vegetable.
✅ This method was traditionally used to combat iron deficiency (anemia) by naturally fortifying food.
📌 How to Use:
- Insert a clean, rusted iron nail into a whole onion and leave it overnight.
- Remove the nail before cooking.
- Use the onion in soups, stews, or broths for an iron-rich meal!
💡 This was a common remedy before modern iron supplements!
2. Improves Soil Quality & Strengthens Plants 🌱🪴
✅ The iron released from the nail-infused onion enriches garden soil.
✅ Helps plants grow stronger by improving chlorophyll production.
✅ Prevents iron deficiency in plants, which can cause yellowing leaves.
📌 How to Use:
- Soak an onion with an iron nail in water for 24 hours.
- Use the iron-rich onion water to fertilize plants.
💡 Great for tomatoes, roses, and leafy greens!
3. Natural Pest & Insect Repellent 🦟🚫
✅ The strong sulfur compounds in onion mix with iron, creating a natural insect repellent.
✅ Keeps away mosquitoes, garden pests, and even rodents.
📌 How to Use:
- Place a nail-pierced onion near doors/windows to deter insects.
- Bury it in the garden to keep pests away from crops.
💡 An old-fashioned yet effective way to protect your home and plants!
4. Enhances the Flavor of Broths & Stews 🍜🔥
✅ The iron-saturated onion deepens the richness of soups and stews.
✅ Adds a slightly earthy, mineral taste to dishes.
📌 How to Use:
- Stick a cleaned iron nail into an onion, let it sit for a few hours.
- Remove the nail and chop the onion for cooking.
💡 A secret trick used in old-fashioned kitchens!
