| schema:text
| - Quick Take
A social media post claims that a paan leaf remedy can cure colds, coughs and breathlessness. After fact checking we found that this claim is mostly false.
The Claim
A Facebook video suggests two remedies using paan (betel) leaves. The first involves boiling paan leaves with ajwain, ginger, cloves, and honey. This is claimed to treat bronchitis, colds, and blocked noses. The second remedy involves applying a paste of paan leaves soaked in mustard oil to the chest. It is said to instantly relieve breathing difficulties, colds, coughs, and phlegm.
Fact Check
Do paan or betel leaves have medicinal properties?
Yes, paan leaves contain compounds with potential medicinal properties. Studies have shown that paan leaves possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects in laboratory settings. These effects are due to the presence of polyphenols, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds. However, it’s crucial to distinguish between in vitro (test tube) or animal studies and clinical trials on humans. While these initial findings are promising, we still need more research on humans to confirm their efficacy in treating specific conditions.
Can boiling paan leaves with other ingredients cure respiratory illnesses?
No, boiling paan leaves with ajwain, ginger, cloves, and honey cannot cure respiratory illnesses like bronchitis or instantly clear a blocked nose. While some of these ingredients have shown potential benefits, they do not constitute a cure. For instance, ginger and honey may soothe a sore throat, and ajwain contains thymol, which has some antiseptic properties. However, these are supportive measures, not cures. Bronchitis, especially if chronic, often requires medical intervention, including antibiotics or inhalers in some cases. Relying solely on these remedies can delay appropriate treatment and potentially worsen the condition.
Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, and General Physician from Navi Mumbai, says, “While paan leaves and some of the ingredients in this remedy have mild soothing or antimicrobial properties, there is no evidence to suggest they can cure respiratory illnesses like bronchitis. These conditions often require proper medical treatment, such as antibiotics or inhalers, depending on the cause.”
Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician at Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, states, “Home remedies like boiling paan leaves with ginger and cloves may provide temporary relief for symptoms like a sore throat or congestion, but they are not a cure for respiratory illnesses. It’s important to consult a doctor for persistent or severe symptoms.”
Moreover, cloves, even in concoctions, can pose risks. They contain compounds like eugenol, which may cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation, or allergic reactions. Cloves are also known to increase bleeding risks, particularly when taken with certain medications like warfarin. Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies to ensure they are safe for you.
Is applying paan leaf paste in mustard oil an effective treatment for breathing difficulties?
No, applying a paan leaf paste soaked in mustard oil to the chest is not a proven treatment for breathing difficulties. While the warmth from the oil might provide temporary soothing relief, it does not address the underlying cause of respiratory distress. Breathing difficulties can be due to various conditions, including asthma, infections, or heart problems, each requiring specific medical management. Applying a paste to the chest is unlikely to have any significant impact on these conditions. In fact, it could potentially irritate the skin.
Similarly, people have suggested that betel leaf with mustard oil can extract worms through the navel. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Can these remedies replace conventional medical treatment?
Absolutely not. These home remedies should not replace conventional medical treatment for respiratory conditions. While they might provide some symptomatic relief for mild colds or coughs, they are not effective against more severe illnesses like bronchitis, pneumonia, or asthma exacerbations. No credible health organisation recognises these remedies as a valid treatment for such conditions, as claimed in the post. Seeking quick medical attention is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment of such conditions. Delaying or avoiding medical care in favour of unproven remedies can lead to serious health consequences.
We have also debunked the claim that ginger and turmeric can instantly cure colds and coughs, as this is not entirely accurate.
Are there any potential risks associated with these remedies?
Yes, there are potential risks. While generally considered safe in moderation, excessive consumption of paan may have adverse effects. Also, applying oil to the chest may cause skin irritation in some individuals. Furthermore, relying on these remedies instead of seeking medical advice for serious conditions can be dangerous.
THIP Media Take
The claim that a paan leaf remedy can cure colds, coughs and breathlessness is mostly false. While some ingredients in the remedy have mild symptomatic benefits, there is no scientific evidence that the described paan leaf remedies cure colds, coughs, or bronchitis. Such conditions require appropriate medical attention and cannot be effectively treated with home remedies alone.
|
![[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)