Medical myths from the people: more harm than good.

When faced with the bubonic plague in 1665, the residents of London desperately sought ways to protect themselves from this deadly disease. One of the most popular remedies at the time was a medical myth suggesting that a mixture of two small cloves of garlic with half a liter of fresh milk could provide protection. People believed that consuming this strange cocktail on an empty stomach each morning would help prevent the terrible illness.

Medical Myths: A Cross Between Fake News and Misleading Advertising

In our time, many have sought possible remedies against COVID-19, often resorting to similar methods. Unfortunately, despite laboratory studies showing that garlic contains compounds with antimicrobial properties, the idea of using it to prevent infection from any bacteria or viruses is largely based on folklore.

While folk remedies may seem harmless, they can actually pose risks to individuals. For instance, an elderly woman suffered a chemical burn on her tongue from daily consumption of raw garlic.

As noted by Sciencealert, medical folk wisdom often carries a certain level of tempting intuition. Typically, it stems from cultural beliefs and ancient traditions. Folk remedies can include herbal medicines, dietary recommendations, and advice on specific behaviors. However, this very folk wisdom can contribute to the persistence of myths about the causes and treatments of diseases, despite advancements in medical science.

For example, the unwavering belief among many that eating before swimming is dangerous because it could lead to drowning lacks scientific backing. Although the logic may seem convincing, researchers have debunked this idea.

On one hand, folk wisdom resembles misinformation, yet on the other, it is neither outright fake nor misleading advertising. Even if someone endorses it, that doesn’t necessarily confirm their anti-scientific beliefs.

For instance, those who believe in “starving a fever” may also support vaccination. Similarly, it’s not surprising that a person can adhere to official medical recommendations while simultaneously using folk remedies for treatment.

The Deceptive Nature of Folk Remedies Should Not Be Underestimated

However, the assertion that folk wisdom is predominantly benevolent is misleading. The belief that drinking warm milk before bed helps one sleep may not cause harm, even if it’s untrue. Yet, other beliefs can be dangerous.

Folk wisdom, like other forms of misinformation, often lacks scientific validation and spreads rapidly on social media, posing a threat to public health. For example, in 2020, the number of child injuries from burns due to inhaling steam surged thirtyfold in the UK.

This spike was fueled by folk wisdom circulating on social media that misled parents into thinking that inhaling steam could prevent or treat respiratory issues. This is particularly disheartening, as research dating back to 1969 highlighted the dangers of this practice.

While some examples of folk wisdom have a certain level of biological plausibility, others do not. For instance, the belief that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” (a saying dating back to around 1870) likely originated from the fact that these fruits are packed with nutrients. Scientists have found that the vitamin content in apples is not exceptional; however, these fruits are considered functional foods due to a range of bioactive compounds that promote health.

Folk wisdom is unlikely to disappear anytime soon. Therefore, it is essential to understand what drives people to believe in medical myths and how this challenges scientific beliefs. Understanding this connection could be key to preventing its harmful consequences, as lives may depend on it.