In the trend of TikTok, a treasure trove of cold-fighting tips awaits, ranging from scientifically-backed remedies to the downright dubious. The question on everyone’s mind: do these social media trends really work? From onion water concoctions to marshmallow miracles, TikTokers have created a digital pharmacy of unconventional remedies. Let’s dive in and separate the viral wheat from the chaff, seeking expert opinions to guide us through this virtual health bazaar.
The Onion Water Myth
TikTok users rave about the curative powers of onion water, boasting a swift recovery from illness. However, Dr. Sameera Davuluri from the University of Alabama debunks this trend, stating that there is no scientific evidence supporting its efficacy. While onions contain health-boosting elements like vitamin C, calcium, and quercetin, drinking onion water is not a proven remedy. Instead, Davuluri suggests focusing on well-established practices, such as staying hydrated, to manage symptoms effectively.
Immunity Cubes
Personal health elixirs, frozen into “immunity cubes,” have become a TikTok sensation. Combining ingredients like orange juice, ginger, honey, and turmeric, these concoctions claim to be the ultimate cold remedy. Dr. Niharika Khanna acknowledges the potential benefits of individual components, such as honey’s soothing effect on the throat. However, she emphasizes that these are not official treatments and should be viewed as temporary relief rather than a cure.
Potato in Your Sock
An unusual TikTok trend involves placing a potato in your sock to allegedly draw out illness. Dr. Davuluri dismisses this as baseless, clarifying that the blackening of the potato is due to an oxidative reaction, not a miraculous virus extraction. Instead of adopting this peculiar method, she recommends enjoying the immune-boosting benefits of potatoes through consumption, as they are rich in vitamin C.
Garlic Galore
Raw garlic consumption as a cold remedy raises eyebrows on TikTok. While garlic possesses potential health benefits, including antimicrobial properties, eating it by the spoonful might not provide significant relief, warns Dr. Anant Vinjamoori. Garlic enthusiasts are encouraged to indulge but with caution, considering its potential impact on sensitive stomachs.
Marshmallow Magic for Coughs
A viral TikTok sensation suggests that munching on a marshmallow before bed can alleviate cough symptoms due to the throat-coating properties of gelatin. While there’s no scientific backing for this claim, the use of marshmallow root in herbal medicine does support the idea of throat-coating for relief. Dr. Vinjamoori points out the historical association of marshmallow root with throat comfort, though modern marshmallows use gelatin substitutes like agar or pectin.
As TikTok continues to be a hub for health advice, users are urged to approach trending remedies with a discerning eye. While some may offer temporary relief, established medical treatments should not be replaced by these viral trends. Staying informed and consulting healthcare professionals remain the pillars of sound health practices. In the evolving landscape of social media health trends, separating fact from fiction ensures a journey toward well-being that is both informed and effective.
