| schema:text
| - Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A video on social media claims that by placing onion in the socks will cure bronchitis and pneumonia. We fact checked the claim and found it to be False.
The Claim
A social media user by the name samargondal gives prescription through his instagram video saying that keeping onion in socks has the ability to cure bronchitis and pneumonia.
Fact Check
Who is the claimant?
Samar Gondal calls himself a food researcher working in both the public and private areas, in Pakistan. We did some research and tried to find his other social media accounts but we were unable to track down his data about his expert foundation or capabilities.
Is it possible to cure bronchitis and pneumonia?
Yes. Bronchitis and pneumonia are both respiratory conditions, but they affect the lungs in different ways and both are curable except chronic bronchitis (COPD).
- Bronchitis:
- Acute Bronchitis: A viral infection typically causes acute bronchitis, which goes away on its own after a few weeks. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms. It can be done by taking over-the-counter pain and fever medications, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest.
- Chronic Bronchitis: A type of chronic bronchitis is Constant Obstructive Pneumonic Infection (COPD). It is a long illness and typically connected to smoking. Although it cannot be completely cured, treatment includes quitting smoking, taking a good diet, taking bronchodilators and corticosteroids, and making other adjustments to one’s lifestyle.
- Pneumonia:
- Bacterial Pneumonia: This type is generally treated with antibiotics. The specific antibiotic prescribed depends on the bacteria responsible. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be required.
- Viral Pneumonia: Antiviral medications might be prescribed if a virus is identified, but often, treatment is supportive, including rest, fluids, and medications to relieve symptoms.
- Fungal Pneumonia: This is treated with antifungal medications, and treatment length can vary depending on the severity of the infection.
Both bronchitis and pneumonia require proper medical diagnosis and treatment by a certified doctor. Delaying or avoiding professional medical treatment can even lead to death.
Does putting onion in socks can cure bronchitis and pneumonia?
According to the National Onion Association, it is possible. This remedy originated as early as the 1500s, when it was widely known that putting raw, cut-up onions around your home would protect you from the bubonic plague. Putting onion slices in socks is a common home remedy for bronchitis, pneumonia, and other illnesses. The belief that onions have healing properties and can “draw out” illness underpins this practice. However, this claim is false and gets no support from by any scientific body.
What will be consequences if someone tries to treat pneumonia and bronchitis at home?
Treating pneumonia and bronchitis at home can have serious consequences if not managed properly. Here are some potential risks and issues:
- Worsening of symptoms: Without immediate medical treatment, symptoms can worsen. Pneumonia, in particular, can progress rapidly and become life-threatening.
- Complications: Both pneumonia and bronchitis can lead to complications like respiratory failure, sepsis, or pleural effusion. These conditions require immediate medical attention.
- Ineffective treatment: Over-the-counter medications and home remedies like placing onion in socks may not address the root cause, particularly if the illness is bacterial and requires antibiotics or other specific treatments.
- Delayed professional care: Attempting to manage these conditions at home might delay seeking professional medical help, which can be critical for recovery.
- Increased risk to others: If the illness is contagious, not seeking medical care can increase the risk of spreading the infection to others.
We have previously fact checked a similar sounding claim where the claimant is saying placing onion and potatoes in socks can cure cold and flu. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you suspect pneumonia or bronchitis to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Kashyap Dakshini, General Physician practising in Mumbai, states that, “There is no scientific evidence proving that sliced vegetables like potatoes or onions can cure respiratory illnesses.”
Voomika Mukherjee, a Health & Nutrition Life Coach, explains, “Bronchitis and pneumonia can happen because of various factors. Instead of relying on unproven remedies like placing onions in socks, it’s more beneficial to consume onions. They contain numerous medicinal compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The sulfur compounds in onions also have strong antibacterial and antiviral effects. However, placing onions in socks will not effectively combat respiratory illnesses.”
|
![[RDF Data]](/fct/images/sw-rdf-blue.png)
![[cxml]](/fct/images/cxml_doc.png)
![[csv]](/fct/images/csv_doc.png)
![[text]](/fct/images/ntriples_doc.png)
![[turtle]](/fct/images/n3turtle_doc.png)
![[ld+json]](/fct/images/jsonld_doc.png)
![[rdf+json]](/fct/images/json_doc.png)
![[rdf+xml]](/fct/images/xml_doc.png)
![[atom+xml]](/fct/images/atom_doc.png)
![[html]](/fct/images/html_doc.png)