Spice mixture no remedy for infertility, other health concerns

A mixture of garlic, turmeric, ginger and clove helps women conceive, regulates the menstrual cycle and “enhances male performance”, claims a Facebook post shared in Nigeria in August 2020.

“If you have been fighting a long infection, you need to try this. It helps the body come back to normal,” the post claims.

“Another amazing thing is that it burns fat around your belly and is also good for weight reduction. Not recommended for nursing mothers and pregnant women.  Should only be used during menstrual cycle if you’re trying to conceive.”

The post gives directions for the preparation and use of the mixture and advises pregnant and nursing women not to consume it.

However, could this mixture really be a cure-all for many people’s intimate concerns?

Ignore mixture, visit medical specialist

Adetunji Adeniji, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomoso, southwestern Nigeria, advised women to use orthodox, not traditional medicine.

“I can’t advise on the mixture because it is not an orthodox medicine. The safest option for women battling with fertility issues, irregular menstrual flow and recurrent infections is to visit a gynaecologist,” he said.

Sulyman Alege Kuranga, Professor of Urology at the Faculty of Clinical Sciences at the University of Ilorin in western Nigeria, said there was no documented scientific backing to the claim about male sexual performance.

“This isn’t the first time I hear about the claim. I wouldn’t advise any man to use it.

“For any man battling with poor performance, he should visit a urologist. The specialist would first diagnose the cause of the problem before prescribing a drug which would work,” the professor said.

A collaboration between Daily Trust and Africa Check to fight health misinformation.