| schema:text
| - Last Updated on June 27, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A video claims that a synthetic antioxidant oil called BHT can stop the replication of lipid enveloped viruses. The video says it can effectively treat infections like herpes, shingles, and chickenpox. We term this claim as False.
The Claim
A Facebook video claims that using a synthetic antioxidant oil, specifically BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), can effectively stop the replication of lipid enveloped viral infections such as herpes, shingles, and chickenpox.
Fact Check
What is herpes?
Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types: HSV-1, which typically causes oral herpes, and HSV-2, which usually causes genital herpes. Herpes manifests as sores and blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. The virus remains in the body for life and can reactivate, leading to recurrent outbreaks. It is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with an infected person.
What is shingles?
Shingles or herpes zoster, is a viral infection which happens due to the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the nervous system. Years later, it can reactivate as shingles, leading to a painful rash and blisters, usually on one side of the body. Shingles can be particularly severe in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It primarily affects children and causes an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters. Chickenpox can lead to complications such as bacterial infections of the skin, pneumonia, and encephalitis, especially in adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent chickenpox.
What is a lipid enveloped virus?
A lipid-enveloped virus is a type of virus that has a covering made of lipids (fats) around its genetic material. This covering, known as a viral envelope, comes from the host cell membrane when the virus multiplies. These viruses, like the ones causing dengue, yellow fever, COVID-19, and herpes, can infect cells by attaching to certain receptors on the cell’s surface and merging with the cell membrane. This lets the virus release its genetic material into the cell.
What is BHT?
BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant commonly used as a preservative in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils. It also has industrial applications such as lubricants and rubber products. BHT has been studied for its potential health effects, including its role as an antioxidant, but it is also associated with various health concerns, particularly when consumed in large amounts.
Can BHT stop the replication of lipid enveloped viruses causing infections like herpes, shingles, or chickenpox?
No, BHT cannot stop the replication of lipid enveloped viruses. There is no substantial scientific evidence to support the claim that BHT can stop the replication of encapsulated viral infections such as herpes, shingles, or chickenpox in humans. While some in vitro (lab-based) studies have suggested that BHT may have antiviral properties, these findings do not necessarily translate to effective treatments in humans. The effectiveness of a treatment must be validated through rigorous clinical trials involving human subjects. Therefore, choosing BHT instead of clinically approved medicines is not recommended.
We asked Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, a General Physician, at Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, for his opinion. He says, “Always rely on professional advice and medical care to tackle diseases like shingles, herpes or chickenpox. BHT is not clinically approved for treating these diseases. Also, there is no ‘cure’ for the herpes virus, as of now!”
Can essential oils or synthetic oils like BHT help with viral infections?
Some essential oils and synthetic compounds like BHT have shown antiviral properties in laboratory studies. However, these studies usually happen in controlled environments and do not reflect the complexity of the human body. Essential oils or BHT should not serve as replacements for conventional medical treatments. Relying on unproven treatments can delay proper medical care and worsen health outcomes.
What are the best treatments for herpes?
The best treatments for herpes involve antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. These medications can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency of outbreaks, and decrease the risk of transmission to others. It is important for individuals with herpes to follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations and to take antiviral medications as prescribed.
How is shingles treated?
Shingles is treated with antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir. Doctors can also prescribe pain relief medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and sometimes corticosteroids, to manage symptoms. Early treatment within the first 72 hours of the onset of the rash can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
How to prevent chickenpox?
The most effective way to prevent chickenpox is through vaccination. The varicella vaccine is highly effective at preventing the disease and its complications. It is suitable for children, adolescents, and adults who have never had chickenpox or been vaccinated. The vaccine is also important for preventing the spread of the virus to vulnerable populations, such as infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals (weakened immune system).
Is BHT safe for consumption?
BHT is generally recognised as safe (GRAS) by regulatory agencies when used in small amounts as a food preservative. However, high doses of BHT shows potential health risks, including liver damage and cancer in animal studies. The long-term effects of consuming BHT in large quantities are still not clear, and we need more research to determine its safety in humans.
The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has evaluated the safety of Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) used in cosmetic products. BHT acts as an antioxidant in various cosmetic formulations at concentrations ranging from 0.0002% to 0.8%. Despite its potential endocrine-disrupting properties, SCCS concluded that BHT is safe at specified concentrations: up to 0.001% in mouthwash, 0.1% in toothpaste, and 0.8% in other leave-on and rinse-off products.
Preliminary studies show potential toxic effects of BHT on the lungs, liver and kidneys at high doses. It can also mimic oestrogen. Another lab study shows that BHT can partially block the action of an important male hormone, DHT. This suggests that BHT might interfere with hormone activity, which could potentially be harmful. But, at low concentrations used in cosmetics, it remains primarily in the skin and does not cause significant systemic exposure or skin irritation.
Can BHT cause cancer?
The carcinogenic potential of BHT is unclear. While some studies suggest that BHT may be carcinogenic, others have found no evidence of carcinogenic potential. In reality, the scientific consensus is that BHT is not a human carcinogen, according to various organisations such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the US National Toxicology Program (NTP), and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
However, it’s important to note that some in vitro studies show BHT can cause genetic mutations, which can increase the risk of cancer. Additionally, some animal studies have suggested that BHT may be carcinogenic at high doses.
Are there any natural remedies for viral infections?
Although some natural remedies, such as certain herbs and supplements, have antiviral properties, most lack sufficient evidence to serve as primary treatments for viral infections. It is important to approach natural remedies with caution and to consult healthcare professionals before using them, especially for serious infections. Combining natural remedies with conventional treatments under medical supervision may provide additional benefits, but they should not replace professional medical care.
Conclusion
The claim made that a synthetic antioxidant oil called BHT can stop the replication of lipid enveloped viral infections like herpes, shingles, and chickenpox is false. Effective treatments for these conditions involve antiviral medications, and there is no substantial scientific evidence to support the use of BHT as a cure. It is important to rely on evidence-based medical treatments and consult healthcare professionals for appropriate care. Unverified claims and unproven treatments can lead to delays in receiving proper medical care and potentially worsen health outcomes. Always seek advice from qualified healthcare providers and adhere to recommended medical treatments for managing viral infections.
|
![[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)