Last Updated on June 9, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that lemon peel is a natural chemotherapy drug and is 10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy treatment. We fact-checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
There is a social media post circulating on Facebook that claims lemon peels can serve as a natural chemotherapy alternative for breast cancer, prostate cancer, fibroids, ovarian cysts, and fibromyalgia. The post expresses frustration with pharmaceutical companies prioritizing profit over educating individuals about alternative medicines and natural remedies. It empathizes with those who have suffered or passed away without access to chemotherapy or other prescribed medications. The post also highlights the astonishing claim that lemon possesses a miraculous ability to eliminate cancer cells, purportedly being 10,000 times more potent than chemotherapy.
A screenshot of the Facebook post has been attached below:
Fact Check
What is chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill or slow down the growth of cancer cells. These drugs work by keeping cancer cells from growing, dividing, and making more cells. Chemotherapy can be administered in a variety of ways, including oral pills, injections, intravenous (IV) infusions, or topical applications. The specific chemotherapy drug and treatment regimens are selected depending upon the type and stage of cancer, as well as individual factors such as overall health, age, and other medical conditions.
Do lemons have anti-cancer properties?
Not exactly. Lemons contain compounds that have shown anticancer properties in laboratory studies and animal trials. However, there is no clear evidence that eating lemons or lemon peels can prevent or treat human cancer. We need more research to determine the potential benefits of lemons and lemon peels for cancer prevention and treatment.
Evidence shows that some compounds in lemons and its peel have anticancer properties. These compounds include:
- D-limonene is present in lemon and other citrus fruits, especially in the peel. Evidence shows that it can inhibit the growth of cancer cells in laboratory studies.
- Limonoids are also present in the peel of lemons and other citrus fruits. They might be helpful in cancer.
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant present in lemons that can help protect cells from damage. It may reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
It is important to note that the doses of these compounds used in laboratory studies are often much higher than the amounts that people would consume by eating lemons or lemon peels. We need more research to determine whether eating lemons or lemon peels can provide enough of these compounds to significantly impact cancer risk or treat the disease.
Are lemon peels better than chemotherapy in treating cancer?
No. There is no scientific evidence to prove that lemon peels are better than chemotherapy in treating cancer. While lemon peels contain certain compounds that have shown potential anticancer properties in laboratory studies, they are not a proven or reliable alternative to chemotherapy for treating cancer. THIP MEDIA has previously debunked the notion that hot lemon water treat cancer.
Dr P. Rammanohar, Research Director, Amrita School of Ayurveda, informs us that people must not rely solely on an ingredient to treat cancer. He explains, “Cancer is not a single disease, and there is no remedy for cancer. Different procedures of chemotherapy treats different types of cancer. One drug does not work across all types of cancers.”
Our research confirms that chemotherapy is a well-established and scientifically validated treatment for various types of cancer. It involves the use of powerful drugs that specifically target and kill cancer cells or slow down their growth. Medical professionals prescribe chemotherapy on the basis of type and stage of cancer. This treatment approach is supported by comprehensive research, clinical trials, and regulatory approvals, making it a reliable and widely accepted method for public use.
On the other hand, the potential anticancer properties of lemon peels are still in the early stages of research. Some studies have shown that certain compounds found in lemon peels, such as limonene, etc., may have anticancer effects in laboratory settings. However, translating these findings to human cancer treatment is complex and requires rigorous investigation through clinical trials.
Dr Anil Sharma, Consultant Haemato-Oncologist and Paediatric Oncologist at Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Gwalior states, “Many traditional medicine systems have utilized herbal remedies, also referred to as botanical medicine. These remedies are derived from different parts of plants, such as roots, leaves, berries, and flowers. They contain active ingredients capable of inducing chemical changes within the body. Herbal remedies can be administered orally or topically to treat diseases and enhance overall well-being. In certain cases, herbs and plants are classified as biological treatments. Numerous scientific studies have investigated the impact of different herbs on individuals with cancer. While some remedies have demonstrated the ability to alleviate the side effects of cancer treatment, several remedies lack research-based support.”
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