Red onion is a remarkable ingredient for foot care because it contains a high concentration of sulfur and quercetin. These compounds act as natural healers for the thick, “dead” skin that forms on the heels. When combined with a deep moisturizer, red onion helps to chemically soften calluses and repair deep cracks, often more effectively than store-bought creams.

By applying this remedy, you are utilizing the onion’s antimicrobial properties to prevent infection in deep cracks while the natural acids work to “dissolve” the hardened layers of the heel.

Why Red Onion Works for Cracked Heels

• Sulfur for Tissue Repair: Sulfur is a vital mineral for skin health. It helps the body produce collagen and keratin, which are necessary for the skin on your heels to remain elastic and “knit” back together.
• Natural Exfoliation: The enzymes in red onion juice act as a mild keratolytic, meaning they help break down the excess keratin (the hard stuff) that makes heels dry and flaky.
• Antiseptic Protection: Cracked heels are prone to bacteria. Red onion is naturally antiseptic, ensuring that as the skin heals, it stays clean and free of irritation.
• Deep Hydration: When mixed with a fat like coconut oil or Vaseline, the onion juice acts as a “delivery system,” helping the moisture penetrate deeper into the tough skin.

---

The Recipe: The Red Onion & Oil Healing Balm

This treatment is best applied at night so the active ingredients can work undisturbed while you sleep.

Ingredients

• 1/2 of a Red Onion
• 1 tablespoon of Coconut Oil or Vaseline
• A small piece of plastic wrap (cling film)
• A pair of clean socks

Instructions

1. Extract the Juice: Grate the half red onion finely. Place the pulp into a clean cloth and squeeze it hard to collect the juice in a small bowl. You only need about 2 teaspoons of juice.
2. Combine: Mix the onion juice thoroughly with the coconut oil or Vaseline until it forms a smooth, slightly pinkish ointment.
3. Prepare the Feet: Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften the skin, then pat them dry.
4. Application: Apply a thick layer of the onion balm directly onto the cracks and calloused areas of your heels.
5. Seal for Healing: Wrap your heels in a small piece of plastic wrap. This “occlusive” method forces the onion’s healing compounds to stay in contact with the skin and prevents the oil from soaking into your socks.
6. Overnight Treatment: Pull your socks on over the plastic wrap and leave it on overnight.
7. Cleanse: In the morning, remove the wrap and wash your feet with warm water and mild soap. You will notice the skin is significantly softer and the cracks appear less prominent.

A Thoughtful Tip: For “permanent” results, use this remedy every other night for one week. Once your heels are smooth, applying a simple moisturizer daily will prevent the cracks from ever returning.