Can Lemon And Hot Water Kill Coronavirus? Experts Bust Popular Myths

India is tackling the second wave of Coronavirus which has seen an exponential rise in cases. During this time, several videos and misinformation are doing the rounds about cures for the virus. For instance, recently a video claimed that two drops of lemon in the nose could ‘completely kill’ Coronavirus in the body. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has shared a post about this viral video, saying that there is no scientific basis to this claim. The PIB has shared several other myth-busting posts on Twitter in order to dispel popular myths about COVID-19. Take a look:

News stating that COVID patients are recovering from the intake of rock salt along with raw onion are FAKE! Don’t fall prey to misinformation! For authentic news and information, visit: https://t.co/t8yHLhHqZa#IndiaFightsCorona#MyGovMythBusterspic.twitter.com/enHnIi7NRg— MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) April 23, 2021

(Also Read: ‘Don’t Follow WhatsApp Forwarded Diet Plans; See An Expert’, Advises Chef Saransh Goila)

News reports stated that COVID positive patients are recovering by the intake of rock salt and raw onion. PIB reported that this claim is false and there is no scientific evidence to prove this. Similarly, another message showed a ‘Cure for Coronavirus‘ from Israel which required hot water, lemon slices and soda bicarbonate to be mixed and consumed as ‘hot tea’ every afternoon. It further said that this drink could “immediately kills #COVID19 & completely eliminates it from body”. However, PIB fact checked this and said that this claim is fake.

A message claiming that drinking hot water with lemon slices & baking soda “immediately kills #COVID19 & completely eliminates it from body” is in circulation #PIBFactCheck: This claim is #Fake

There is no scientific evidence that #COVID19 can be cured by lemon & baking soda pic.twitter.com/UAxqdbE0wL— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) April 22, 2021

There were a few other myths that PIB busted on their Twitter page. Another popular myth is that the inhalation of steam from hot water can kill Coronavirus. Similarly, a few media reports suggested that smokers and vegetarians would be less vulnerable to the COVID-19 infection. PIB clarified that currently there is no study that proves these myths to be true.

There is no scientific evidence to prove that inhaling hot water steam kills #Coronavirus.

Remember: Respiratory hygiene, social distancing and washing hands are effective measures to prevent #Covid19

Let’s spread facts, not fear and contribute to #IndiaFightsCoronaviruspic.twitter.com/fD6PYI68Ds— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) March 30, 2020

Media reports claim that @CSIR_IND survey reveals smokers & vegetarians are less vulnerable to #COVID19#PIBFactCheck: Presently, NO conclusion can be drawn based on the serological studies that vegetarian diet & smoking may protect from #COVID19

Read: https://t.co/RI3ZQA7ac6pic.twitter.com/gQRVDvACfl— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) April 26, 2021

(Also Read: 7 Food Tips To Increase Immunity And Strength In Adolescents)

In the age of the internet when the spread of misinformation and false claims is rampant, it is best to rely on government and official sources only for the required information. Avoid the consumption of foods that are said to be ‘cures’ for Coronavirus. Dispel the myths in the minds of your social circle including family, friends and relatives. Simply wash your hands at regular intervals, wear a mask while venturing out and practice social distancing.

About Aditi AhujaAditi loves talking to and meeting like-minded foodies (especially the kind who like veg momos). Plus points if you get her bad jokes and sitcom references, or if you recommend a new place to eat at.