A COVID-19 remedy? Really?

How to tell whether a herbal product can really treat COVID-19? I wrote the friend a reply, which I wish to share here without naming the product. My intention is to provide an example of how we can analyse the information on many COVID-19 cures or remedies that we may read on social media these days.

Ginger and iron deficiency anaemia

Taking ginger can help to improve iron deficiency anaemia in two ways. First, ginger can help the absorption of iron. Second, ginger stimulates the production of red blood cells and increase the haemoglobin count. Together the anaemic condition can be reversed. Not surprisingly, ginger has been used in TCM to replenish the blood for thousands of years.

Ginkgo for stroke and heart diseases

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) is known as yin xing (银杏)in Chinese. The name literally means silver apricot although the plant is not related to apricot in any way. Ginkgo nuts are …

Natural remedies for prediabetes

Prediabetes is a warning sign of health. It signifies a needed change in diet and lifestyles. Garlic, cinnamon, Gymnema, fenugreek, and chromium are five natural remedies that can help to improve blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes. The use of these remedies is supported by scientific evidence.

Plant-based remedies for acid reflux

Many plant-based remedies, inclduiong chamomile, ginger, lemon, slippery elm, marshmallow, and meadowsweet, can be used to ease the discomfort of acid reflux and help to improve the condition.These herbs have been traditionally used to address gastrointestinal conditions. Trust the ancient wisdom.

Seven reasons to consume mushrooms regularly

Edible mushrooms have been treasured as not only as culinary delicacies, but also medicine since ancient times. Warriors in ancient Greece took mushrooms to gain strength for battle; to the …

Chinese “almond” milk: recipe and health benefits

Chinese “almond” milk or Xing Ren Cha (杏仁茶/露) is a traditional Chinese drink. I remember it was my grandma’s favourite drink. With a distinctive smell, I used to hate it …

Can dandelion root tea cure cancer?

A friend forwarded me an internet article which claimed that drinking dandelion tea can cure cancer. The article reported that a 72-year old leukaemia patient, who was sent home to …

Common household herbs and their health benefits

There are many common household herbs that can be easily grown under the hot and humid weather of Singapore. Even with only a limited space in most apartments, herbal plants …

A peek into traditional Korean medicine

I was in Seoul, South Korea for a short study trip in November last year. In there, I learned about the history of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) and the current …