Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A widely shared Facebook article suggests using castor and almond oil together to treat coughs and phlegm. After analysing the claim, we found that it is mostly false.
The Claim
According to a viral Facebook Post, using just almond oil, castor oil, and milk to induce phlegm expulsion. Additionally, the post suggests using this combination to treat persistent coughs.
Following thorough research, we identified several social media posts about packing potatoes in socks, taking pineapple juice, and using onions to treat coughs. We have carefully fact-checked these assertions to ensure their accuracy.
Fact Check
Are the claimant and the post reliable?
No, not really. After performing a Google Reverse Image search on the keyframe of the Facebook post, we were not able to track down the speaker’s precise background. Moreover, we were unable to find any hospital pages that indicated their affiliation with the speaker. It is therefore unclear how trustworthy the claimant and the post are.
When we asked Dr. Nikita Chauhan, an obstetrician, and gynaecologist, she advised that we verify the credentials of any individual or organisation providing medical information before trusting it. Dr. Nikita further explained that they are probably not the best source of information if their qualifications are unclear.
What do we understand by the terms cough and phlegm?
A cough is a reflex action that clears the throat and airways of foreign irritants. The key factors responsible for causing irritation include dust, mucous, and external allergens. Coughs can be both productive and non-productive. Phlegms are expelled from productive coughs.
Phlegm is the medical term for mucus, or a viscous substance released by the respiratory system. Phlegm serves a defensive purpose by trapping and eliminating external irritants. It is worth mentioning that the underlying respiratory conditions might impact the frequency of coughing and phlegm production. Common causes of these symptoms include colds, flu, bronchitis, asthma, COPD, and pneumonia. Environmental factors such as smoke, air pollution, and postnasal drip can also contribute to coughing and excessive mucus production. Additionally, chronic coughing and discoloured phlegm could indicate underlying chronic illnesses like emphysema or chronic bronchitis. The type and colour of the phlegm, as well as the severity of the cough, can all play a role in identifying the underlying illness.
Should One use castor and almond oil to treat phlegm and cough?
No, not at all. This is because there is insufficient data to support the effectiveness of combining castor and almond oils with milk for treating coughing and phlegm. Almond oil and castor oil are traditional remedies that can aid with symptom relief.
Castor oil is an all-natural antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. As a result, it might help with mucous discharge and soothe sore throats. Conversely, almond oil, rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants, can lubricate the throat and enhance overall respiratory health. However, the underlying condition causing these symptoms cannot be treated by the combination. Therefore, it is always essential to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.
When we asked Dr. Kashyap Dakshini, General Physician, whether a combination of castor and almond oil could treat cough and phlegm, he advised that although it might provide momentary symptomatic relief, cough and phlegm can be signs of several underlying medical conditions, such as asthma or any respiratory allergies. He further advised not to rely on any home-based treatment modality; rather, one should consult their doctor for proper detection along with prompt and appropriate treatment.
It should be made clear that essential oils, a concoction of volatile molecules, have been associated with cough and phlegm relief. This could be attributed to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and expectorant characteristics. These essential oils mostly consist of tea tree, peppermint, eucalyptus, and bitter fennel fruit oils. Consequently, these oils may help to alleviate the symptoms of several respiratory ailments. Furthermore, some herbal cough suppressants have also been identified. These include cardamom, cloves, garlic, lemon, honey, and turmeric. However, the data supporting their role in the management of coughs and phlegm remains limited. As a result, it is critical to utilise them carefully and in accordance with the recommended dosage because misuse or excess can have unfavourable effects.
How should cough and phlegm be medically managed?
A multimodal strategy is required for the medical therapy of cough and phlegm. This typically entails treating the underlying problem in addition to relieving the symptoms. First, a comprehensive clinical evaluation is used to determine the underlying cause of the condition. This determination plays a vital role in medication prescription. On the other hand, expectorants and cough suppressants help to clear the airways of phlegm and relieve the symptoms of a dry, ineffective cough, respectively.
Maintaining adequate hydration is essential. Sufficient intake of liquids facilitates simpler outflow, and humidification helps to moisturise airways and reduce coughing. Without upholding a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding tobacco and allergens, management is insufficient. Hence, a customised strategy under the supervision of medical experts ensures efficient management to meet individual needs and conditions.
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