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| - Last Updated on November 14, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a jamun stick can purify water to make it safe for drinking. We did a thorough fact check to term this claim as false.
The Claim
A viral Instagram post suggests that placing a jamun (Indian blackberry) stick in water can purify it, making it safe for drinking. Proponents of this practice argue that natural substances from certain plants can remove impurities and bacteria from water.
Fact Check
Can a jamun stick truly purify water?
No, there is no scientific proof that a jamun stick can purify water or make it safe for consumption. Although jamun has antimicrobial properties, there is no evidence that jamun sticks are effective for water purification. A 2021 study examined jamun leaves for domestic wastewater treatment, but no research supports the use of jamun sticks for this purpose. According to another study from 2024, Jamun has health benefits and potential as an adsorbent for water purification. But still, there is no evidence supporting the use of jamun sticks for making water safe to drink.
During our search, we found many news outlets promoting claims about jamun sticks for water purification, but no scientific papers supported this. However, a study by IIT Hyderabad focused on jamun seeds for fluoride reduction in water. Although we confirmed the study on the institute’s website, the full research article was inaccessible due to a dead link. News articles revealed that IIT Hyderabad researchers found that activated jamun seed powder mixed with potassium hydroxide and heated could significantly reduce fluoride levels, bringing them to safe WHO limits. The tests showed fluoride levels could drop from 3.2 mg/L to below 1.5 mg/L, with the powder remaining effective for up to five uses with minimal efficiency loss.
We connected with Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, for her take on jamun sticks for water purification. She says, “The belief that a jamun stick can purify water and make it safe for drinking is a common myth without scientific backing. While jamun itself has certain health benefits, especially for blood sugar control, there is no evidence that simply placing a jamun stick in water will purify it or eliminate harmful contaminants like bacteria, viruses, or chemical pollutants.”
Dr Fatma adds, “For water to be truly safe, it must go through effective purification methods such as boiling, filtration, or chemical disinfection. These methods are proven to remove or neutralise contaminants. Relying on jamun sticks could give a false sense of safety, potentially leading to waterborne illnesses.”
What is known about water purification methods?
Water purification is essential for preventing waterborne diseases and ensuring safe drinking water. Effective methods include boiling, filtration, chlorination, and ultraviolet (UV) treatment. These methods have been proven through rigorous scientific testing to eliminate harmful pathogens and impurities.
Could using a jamun stick to purify water pose any risks?
Yes, relying on unproven methods to purify water can be dangerous. Consuming untreated or inadequately treated water exposes individuals to pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause illnesses like cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. Using a jamun stick without proven efficacy could lead to a false sense of security, resulting in the ingestion of contaminated water.
Apart from this, people also suggest that jamun can cure diabetes, but this is not entirely true. However, jamun and karela can naturally help control diabetes. While this might work for some, it shouldn’t deter you from consulting a healthcare professional for proper diabetes care.
What should be done to ensure safe drinking water?
To ensure safe drinking water, people should use proven purification methods:
- Boiling: Kills most pathogens, making water microbiologically safe.
- Filtration: Removes particles and certain microorganisms, especially with advanced filters.
- Chlorination: Effective in killing bacteria and viruses.
- UV treatment: Disrupts the DNA of pathogens, neutralising them.
These methods are reliable, accessible, and have a strong evidence base supporting their effectiveness.
We got valuable insights from Dr Anusha Dewan, Practising General Physician and Public Health Professional, Jeevan Anmol Hospital, New Delhi, for her opinion on safe water purification methods. She says, “Ensuring safe drinking water is vital for public health. This means using proven purification methods like boiling, proper filtration, and chemical disinfection, such as chlorination, to eliminate harmful pathogens. While traditional remedies may be appealing, it’s important to rely on scientifically verified approaches to prevent waterborne diseases. Safe water practices, combined with community education on hygiene and sustainable water management, can greatly reduce health risks and promote well-being.”
Are there any studies on natural sticks or herbs purifying water?
Research on natural water purifiers has explored materials such as Moringa oleifera (drumsticks) and activated charcoal due to their properties. For example, Moringa seeds contain proteins that bind to impurities, causing them to settle at the bottom of the container. However, jamun sticks do not feature in reputable studies on water treatment, making the claim scientifically inaccurate.
THIP Media Take
There is no evidence to suggest that using a jamun stick can purify water and make it safe for drinking. Safe water treatment requires methods proven by science, such as boiling, filtration, and chlorination. Believing in unverified practices poses serious health risks. Stick to reliable methods to ensure the water you drink is safe.
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