How to Get Rid of Onion Sting in Eyes? Understanding and Preventing the Tears
The best ways to combat onion sting are by preventing it in the first place and immediately rinsing your eyes if exposed. Several methods, including running water, blinking rapidly, and using specific kitchen techniques, can offer rapid relief, but preventative measures are generally more effective.
The Science Behind the Onion Sting
Onions, a culinary staple around the world, contain a compound called alliin. When an onion is cut, alliinase, an enzyme also present, is released and converts alliin into alliin thiosulfinate. This volatile compound then rearranges into propanethial S-oxide, a lacrimatory agent – a chemical that irritates the eyes and causes tears. This gas rises and, when it reaches the eye, reacts with the moisture, forming a mild sulfuric acid. It’s this sulfuric acid that stings and prompts the lacrimal glands to produce tears to wash it away.
Effective Preventative Measures
While no method is 100% foolproof, these techniques significantly reduce the production and spread of propanethial S-oxide:
- Chill the Onion: Refrigerating the onion for at least 30 minutes before cutting slows down the enzymatic reaction.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife damages fewer cells, reducing the release of alliinase.
- Cut Near Running Water: Water absorbs the propanethial S-oxide before it reaches your eyes.
- Ventilate the Area: Turn on a kitchen fan or open a window to dissipate the gas.
- Wear Goggles or a Mask: Creates a physical barrier between the onion and your eyes. Specific “onion goggles” are available.
- Cut Underwater: Fully submerging the onion while cutting prevents the gas from escaping. However, this can be challenging and potentially dangerous.
Immediate Relief Techniques
If the sting is unavoidable, here are several methods for immediate relief:
- Rinse Thoroughly with Cold Water: Flush your eyes with clean, cold water for several minutes.
- Blink Rapidly: Rapid blinking encourages tear production, naturally washing away the irritant.
- Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears provide soothing relief and lubrication.
- Seek Fresh Air: Stepping away from the cutting area and breathing fresh air can help reduce exposure.
Debunking Common Myths
Numerous myths surround onion cutting, often suggesting methods that are ineffective or even harmful.
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| Holding a piece of bread in your mouth | No scientific evidence supports this claim. |
| Chewing gum | While some believe it helps, it’s unlikely to have a significant effect on reducing the irritant. |
| Lighting a candle near the cutting board | May have a minimal effect on air currents, but not effective enough to make a significant difference. |
| Whistling | No scientific basis. |
When to Seek Medical Attention
In most cases, onion sting is a temporary inconvenience. However, if you experience persistent pain, blurred vision, or any signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., swelling, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can contact lenses protect my eyes from onion sting?
Yes, contact lenses offer a degree of protection as they act as a physical barrier between the onion gas and your cornea. However, they don’t completely eliminate the sting, as the gas can still seep around the edges. Combining contact lenses with other preventative measures is the best approach.
Does the type of onion affect the intensity of the sting?
Yes, different onion varieties contain varying levels of the enzyme that produces the irritating gas. Stronger, more pungent onions tend to produce a more intense sting compared to sweeter, milder varieties like Vidalia onions.
Is there a specific technique for cutting onions that minimizes the sting?
Yes, try cutting the root end last. This minimizes the release of enzymes from this concentrated area. Also, avoid crushing or bruising the onion as you cut, as this releases more alliinase.
Does freezing the onion work better than refrigerating it?
Freezing onions is not recommended for reducing the sting. Freezing changes the texture of the onion, making it mushy and less palatable. Refrigeration is sufficient to slow down the enzymatic reaction.
Can I use a food processor to avoid cutting onions by hand?
Yes, a food processor can eliminate direct contact, but it doesn’t necessarily eliminate the sting entirely. The gas is still released, and you may experience irritation while cleaning the processor. Ensure adequate ventilation while using a food processor.
Are there any eye drops specifically designed to prevent onion sting?
No, there are no eye drops specifically designed to prevent onion sting. However, lubricating eye drops, used before cutting onions, can provide a protective barrier and reduce irritation.
Does aging or curing onions affect their lacrimatory properties?
Yes, aging and curing onions can actually increase their pungency, potentially leading to a stronger sting. This is because the concentration of the volatile compounds can increase over time.
Can I build a tolerance to onion sting over time?
While no definitive research supports this claim, some individuals report experiencing less irritation after consistently handling onions. This may be due to a slight desensitization of the nerve endings in the eyes, but it’s not a reliable solution.
Does cutting onions near a lit match help?
This is a common myth with little scientific basis. While a lit match may slightly alter air currents, it’s unlikely to significantly reduce the concentration of the irritating gas reaching your eyes.
Does soaking the onion in water before cutting help?
Soaking the onion in water can reduce the intensity of the sting because it dilutes the irritating compounds. However, it can also leach out some of the onion’s flavor. A quick rinse may be a better compromise.
Is onion sting harmful to my eyes?
In most cases, onion sting is not harmful and causes only temporary discomfort. The tearing is a natural defense mechanism to wash away the irritant. However, if you experience persistent pain, blurred vision, or signs of an allergic reaction, consult a doctor.
Can eating onions make me cry?
Eating onions rarely causes crying in the same way as cutting them. The irritant is primarily released when the onion’s cells are damaged during cutting. While some individuals may experience mild irritation from the vapors released while eating, it’s usually minimal compared to the cutting experience.