Last Updated on February 9, 2024 by Aditi Gangal
Quick Take
A social media video claims that inhaling infused water steam prevents COVID-19. The video recommends to infuse water with oranges, limes, lemons, onions, garlic, ginger, and basil. We fact-checked and found the claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
In an Instagram video, the claimant shares a homemade nasal steam to fight COVID-19 infection. The video provides instructions for making homemade nasal steam with oranges, limes, lemons, onions, garlic, ginger, and basil. The caption recommended inhaling the steam while leaning over the pot with a towel or robe covering the head. It cautioned about the steam’s temperature and suggested taking breaks. The post emphasized the effectiveness of the nasal steam and encouraged others to share, like, and save the post.
We have attached a screenshot of how the post looks at the time of publishing this story.
In other fact check story, we have shown that drinking hot water kills coronavirus.
Fact Check
Does inhaling infused water steam prevent COVID-19?
Not exactly. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that inhaling steam infused with water containing oranges, limes, lemons, onions, garlic, ginger, and basil prevents COVID-19. While some of these ingredients may have health benefits and can contribute to overall well-being, there is no specific evidence to suggest that inhaling their steam can prevent viral infections, including COVID-19. The same has been confirmed by Dr Neha Rastogi Panda, Senior Infectious Diseases Specialist, Fortis Hospital Gurgaon. In an interview with THIP Media, Dr Rastogi explains that home remedies can be a pillar of holistic treatment of COVID-19. But they solely cannot not cure COVID-19. The only way to effectively prevent or treat COVID-19 is through evidence-based measures recommended by health authorities and healthcare professionals.
Even though water steam itself cannot prevent COVID-19, it may offer some symptomatic relief. Taking steam can help if someone is already experiencing symptoms like a cough, congestion, or nasal drip. Warm, moist air can help moisturize and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and reducing congestion. This can provide temporary relief from a cough, stuffy nose, and difficulty breathing. Inhaling steam can also soothe a sore throat and irritated nasal passages.
However, it is important to note that steam inhalation does not kill the virus and does not prevent COVID-19. It only offers temporary relief from some symptoms. Steam inhalation is not a substitute for proven preventive measures such as vaccination, wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining physical distance from others. It may offer some relief for congestion or nasal symptoms but does not directly target the virus responsible for COVID-19.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, steam inhalation gained attention as a potential remedy for respiratory symptoms, likely because it is perceived as a simple and accessible home remedy. Observations consistently indicate that the application of steam inhalation has reduced clinical symptoms in infected patients. But large-scale randomized controlled trials are necessary to definitively establish and strengthen its effects because the available evidence is more theoretical. Despite its potential benefits, there have been reports of adverse effects. These include accidental scald burns resulting from inadequate care and supervision, particularly in pediatric patients undergoing steam inhalation. Additionally, inhaling vapor from superheated steam at very high temperatures, approximately 130°C, can lead to severe respiratory injury. Therefore, it is evident that while the therapy may be safe, it necessitates stringent caution and vigilant supervision to prevent harm.
It is crucial to rely on scientifically proven methods for prevention and treatment. Health authorities have emphasized the importance of vaccination, adherence to public health guidelines, and seeking medical attention if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, especially if they are severe or persistent.
Overall, steam inhalation can be a safe and helpful way to manage some COVID-19 symptoms. But it is not a prevention method or a substitute for professional medical advice and treatment. It is better to prioritize reliable sources like the World Health Organization (WHO website) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC website) for accurate information and guidance on COVID-19 management.
In conclusion, the best ways to prevent COVID-19 transmission are by following public health guidelines such as practicing good hand hygiene, wearing masks in crowded or indoor settings, maintaining physical distance from others, and getting vaccinated if eligible.
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