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| - Last Updated on August 20, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A Facebook post claims that applying oil to the belly button can cure diabetes and other chronic diseases. Our fact check reveals it’s False.
The Claim
According to a Facebook post, you can cure diabetes and other chronic diseases by applying oil to the belly button. The video further claims that this practice can also cure conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, liver disease, and various skin conditions.
Fact Check
What exactly is a navel or belly button?
The navel, or belly button, is the small, central scar on the abdomen where the umbilical cord was attached in the womb. This cord connected the foetus to the mother, allowing for the transfer of nutrients, oxygen, and waste. After birth, the cord is cut, leaving behind the navel as a permanent reminder of this connection. The navel itself has no specific function after birth. It is simply the spot where the umbilical cord once was.
Does applying oil to the belly button have benefits?
No, not really. Traditional practices suggest that applying oil to the belly button can have benefits for the skin and overall well-being. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that this practice can cure diseases, especially chronic conditions like diabetes. The belly button oil cure for diabetes is a myth without any backing from modern medicine.
The skin around the belly button does absorb oils, which can moisturise the area and provide some relaxation or minor relief from discomfort. But, it does not act as a gateway to curing internal diseases. The concept of a belly button oil cure for diabetes is more about tradition than any proven medical benefits.
Can applying oil to the belly button cure diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases and other chronic diseases?
No, it cannot. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are complex chronic conditions that require a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and ongoing management. The idea that a belly button oil cure for diabetes or other chronic diseases is effective is not supported by any scientific evidence. Managing diabetes, for instance, involves controlling blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, medication, and, in some cases, insulin therapy. High blood pressure and heart disease similarly require targeted interventions such as medication, lifestyle changes, and monitoring.
The claim that applying oil to the belly button can cure such diseases oversimplifies these conditions. This can further mislead people into neglecting proven treatments. This misinformation can be harmful, as delaying or avoiding proper medical care can lead to serious complications.
A 2014 review of ancient literature investigated the clinical effects of navel massage therapy, exploring techniques such as stroking, rubbing, pushing, tapping, and puffing. The study provided evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating gastrointestinal and gynaecological conditions. However, there is no scientific proof to support the belief that oiling the navel can prevent or cure heart disease, diabetes, or liver disease. We would also like to point out that, despite anecdotal evidence, the scientific support for traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda is still insufficient.
Dr P. Rammanohar, Research Director, Amrita School of Ayurveda, says, “There is no scientific evidence to support this. It’s not an official practice in the ayurveda. In fact, this has not been documented in classic ayurveda texts.”
This suggests that the idea of applying oil to the belly button may be circulating a lot on social media. But, it is not rooted in traditional Ayurvedic practices or supported by current scientific research.
Does the navel or belly button have 72,000+ nerve endings?
No, it does not. The claim that the navel has over 72,000 nerve endings is a myth. The navel is a sensitive area for some people due to the presence of nerves in the surrounding abdominal region. But, the idea that it has such a high number of nerve endings is not true, as per anatomical evidence. The human body has millions of nerve endings overall. However, the navel itself does not have an extraordinary concentration compared to other parts of the body.
This exaggerated number is often cited in alternative medicine circles to suggest that the navel is a particularly powerful or significant point on the body. However, in reality, the navel is simply a scar left from where the umbilical cord was attached. All in all, it does not contain a unique or unusually high number of nerve endings.
What are the risks of following such unproven claims?
Following unproven remedies can be dangerous. Relying on unproven treatments like applying oil to the navel for managing serious conditions such as diabetes can lead to neglect of essential medical care. This neglect can result in worsening of the disease and potentially life-threatening complications. It is extremely important to follow evidence-based treatments prescribed by healthcare professionals and not be swayed by unverified claims circulating on social media.
THIP Media Take
The claim that applying oil to the belly button can cure diabetes or other chronic diseases is false. The idea of a belly button oil cure for diabetes lacks any scientific evidence. Individuals should be cautious about such claims. We suggest you seek advice from qualified healthcare professionals for the management and treatment of chronic conditions.
By debunking myths like the belly button oil cure for diabetes, we aim to ensure that people make informed decisions about their health. We have previously fact checked claims that suggested massaging almond oil around the navel can improve vision and complexion, and that applying ginger oil helps in weight loss. There have been several posts which claim that applying oil to the navel can eliminate health problems. All of these claims were found to have minimal scientific support.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
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