IN SHORT: A video on Facebook claims that combining basil and ginger can treat infections, but does not specify what type of infection. Be wary of posts lacking such details, and consult your doctor.
“For your infections, the basil plant can do the magic,” starts a video doing the rounds on Facebook.
The video is overlaid with the text: “Get rid of that infection.”
The narrator instructs users to boil chopped basil leaves and ginger for 10 minutes. She says the leaves have antibacterial properties that can cure different strains of bacteria.
“The ‘tea’ is ready and can be taken any time of the day. I hope this will help someone,” she adds.
Infections occur when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, yeast, and fungi enter and grow in the body. Infections can start in any body part and may spread, potentially causing symptoms like fever. They can also be treated using different hygienic measures.
The video has received over 14,900 reactions, 600 comments and 5,000 shares.
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But can basil and ginger treat all infections? We checked.
The ingredients
Basil plants vary in type, but the one in the video appears to be African basil, commonly known as scent leaf.
African basil, or Ocimum gratissimum, is a versatile herb widely used in soups, stews and sauces. It is also valued in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.
Ginger is a strongly flavoured root of a tropical plant, commonly used in cooking for its spicy, aromatic taste.
The claim is misleading, says expert
Africa Check contacted Ezekiel Iwalewa, a professor of pharmacology at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
“African basil, which we all call scent leaves, has different properties, and certain people treat wounds with it while many cook with it. There are different types of infections, and claiming that African basil will treat infections without mentioning specific types can mislead people. Ginger also has its benefits, but there are limited infections that this claimed remedy can cure,” he said.
He said such a claim was dangerous because people might use it to fight infections that required intensive and rapid medical attention.
Africa Check also couldn’t find any credible studies to support the claim that this mixture could cure all infections.
It is best to be cautious as both ingredients have side effects that could harm you.
For more tips on spotting and debunking health misinformation, read our handy guide to evaluating health claims, quacks and cures.
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