5 Natural Cures That Are Not Effective

These "natural remedies" are a waste of money, and some of them are even harmful.

Americans are taking more supplements than ever before, maybe as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, typically seeking relief from a health ailment. Unfortunately, research does not back up many supplement claims (and internet myths) that claim to heal everything from common colds to COVID-19. These "natural remedies" are a waste of money, and some of them are even harmful.

1. Biotin 

If you're balding, you've probably heard of biotin, which is found in many products that are aimed to restore hair health. Unfortunately, it's a load of nonsense. There is no evidence that biotin can help you regain your hair.

While hair loss, skin rashes, and brittle nails are all symptoms of biotin deficiency, large-scale studies on the efficacy of biotin supplements for hair, skin, and nails as a treatment for these conditions have not been conducted, according to researchers who reviewed more than 100 studies on vitamins and hair loss and published their findings in the journal Dermatology and Therapy in 2019. Limit your dosage if you still believe "taking it won't hurt". Another study discovered that taking high doses of biotin (5-10 mg daily) can increase the risk of lung cancer in men.

2. Elderberry 

Elderberry is found in a wide range of popular syrups and supplements that promise to enhance the immune system and help people recover from colds and flu. It was also rumored on the internet that it may cure COVID-19. (Let's get one thing straight: it can't.) In addition, there is conflicting evidence about the effect of elderberries on immunity. According to one study, it can cut the length of the flu by four days. However, a 2020 trial at the Cleveland Clinic found no difference in the severity or duration of flu symptoms between an elderberry-taking group and a placebo-taking group.

3. Multivitamins 

The title of a bombshell editorial published by Johns Hopkins in 2014 says it all: "Enough Is Enough: Stop Wasting Money on Vitamin and Mineral Supplements." The researchers looked at nearly half a million participants in studies and found that taking multivitamins has no effect on heart disease, cancer, cognitive decline, or early mortality. Their advice: Don't rely on medicines for critical nutrients; instead, eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals.

4. Echinacea 

This herb has long been recommended as a natural immune booster and cold reducer. The science, on the other hand, refutes the hysteria. According to the National Center for Integrative and Complementary Medicine, research has found little evidence that some echinacea preparations may be good for treating colds in adults, while other preparations did not appear to be helpful. Furthermore, there is no evidence that echinacea reduces the amount of colds that adults catch. Some studies have indicated that echinacea can help with cold symptoms, while others have found no benefit.

5. Kava 

Kava is a plant that is commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia, among other things. Some studies suggest it may assist with anxiety, but the evidence isn't conclusive. Worse, kava has been linked to serious liver damage, prompting the FDA to issue a warning against its usage. People have taken kava to help them sleep, but it can lead to liver failure.

How to Stay Safe Out There 

Get vaccinated as soon as possible; if you live in a place with poor vaccination rates, use an N95 face mask, try avoiding large groups, do not go indoors with individuals you aren't sheltering with (particularly in bars), practice excellent hand cleanliness, and try to protect your life and the lives of others.

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