In the age of social media and quick fix health remedies, viral claims of herbal concoctions which promise to clean the uterus from diseases have grabbed much attention. One such viral claim has made its way through the Instagram reels suggesting that a simple herbal tea, made with red onion and shilajit capsules, removes uterine cysts, fibroids, and even controls the menstrual cycle. How accurate are these claims? Let's dig into the science of these claims, and sort out fact from fiction.

The Instagram reel claims to boil red onion in its skin and drink this concoction empty stomach or just before bed that will cleanse the uterus of cysts, fibroids, and so on. It is also promoting supplementary shilajit capsules. Some videos feature alternative medicine enthusiast Deepak Chopra who is preaching in this video. It promises women results right away-for example, how it can straighten out one's periods, get rid of reproductive health concerns, and other such benefits.

Medical experts refute all these claims vigorously. The uterus, they note, is a self-cleansing organ that doesn't need extraneous assistance to "detoxify" or "cleanse." Such claims lack scientific evidence, and in most cases, it's a matter of misinformation or even manipulated content, at times even generated with the help of AI.

It is important to understand why these claims fall short by grasping the nature of uterine cysts and fibroids.

Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs that develop in different areas, including the ovaries. Ovarian cysts are mainly benign and disappear over time without a need for surgical intervention.

Fibroids

These are abnormal growths found in the uterus. They appear in different sizes and cause the following symptoms; heavy bleeding, pelvic pain among others.

Both have to be diagnosed properly and receive adequate treatment. Medication or surgical methods may occasionally be necessary. Herbal teas and remedies, though helpful for general well-being, do not have the capacity to dissolve cysts or fibroids.

Lack of evidence and adequacy on the use of herbal preparations to the study done on uterine fibroids was concluded. That is, more studies of higher quality are needed to fully understand if herbal remedies can possibly contribute any positive effects on the health of the uterus.

Some medicinal plants and herbs are actually capable of exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities; however, their contribution toward addressing issues like those in fibroids and cysts had not yet been proven.

Foods That Can Promote Uterine Health

Although no food or beverage can prevent, eradicate, or kill fibroids or cysts, a healthy diet can be a useful tool in the reduction of possible risk factors and control of symptoms. Foods high in the essential nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins can have a general benefit for the reproductive organs.

Fruits and Vegetables: Produce such as apples, broccoli, cabbage, tomatoes, and citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruit) are rich in antioxidants and may reduce the risk of developing fibroids.

Calcium-Rich Foods: Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and fortified alternatives (soy, almond, or oat milk) are good sources of calcium and vitamin D, which studies suggest may reduce the risk of fibroids.

Vitamin D-Containing Foods: Some of these include light tuna, salmon, and rainbow trout, which provide immune health as well as balance to hormones.

Herbs and Spices for Uterus- Related Ailments

Even though red onion tea and shilajit cannot cleanse the uterus, a few herbs and spices may ease symptoms of disorders such as endometriosis or premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

1. Curcumin: This is a compound found in turmeric that has shown anti-inflammatory effects and may be able to suppress the production of estradiol, a hormone associated with endometriosis.

2. Chamomile: Chamomile tea has been used to alleviate PMS symptoms, and its active compound, chrysin, has been reported to inhibit the growth of endometrial cells.

3. Essential Oils: A combination of cinnamon, clove, rose, and lavender oils applied during aromatherapy massage reduces menstrual pain and bleeding.

4. Ashwagandha: This is an adaptogenic herb used to reduce stress, which can indirectly benefit women with hormonal imbalances or chronic conditions like endometriosis.

While the allure of natural remedies is strong, especially when presented as quick and easy solutions, it’s essential to rely on evidence-based healthcare. Self-diagnosing and experimenting with unproven remedies can delay necessary medical treatment and lead to complications.

Consulting a healthcare provider is critical for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. Doctors can also provide guidance on incorporating safe and effective complementary therapies into your routine.

There is no scientific basis to support the fact that a simple herbal concoction can cleanse the uterus of "any disease," which misleads the individuals to follow some ineffective remedies. The uterus does not require any kind of external "cleansing" for it to work at its best, and cysts and fibroids are usually treated by proper medical care.

Generally speaking, a proper diet with essential fruits, vegetables, and supplements can help develop overall reproductive well-being, however, it shall not replace other medical treatments and interventions. Also, herbs and plants such as chamomile, turmeric, and ashwagandha have been confirmed to be efficient in treating most related conditions.

Always be up to date, follow trusted health care professionals, and beware of fads that promise miraculous improvements in health with less scientific proof. Your health deserves nothing less.

Herbal preparations for uterine fibroids. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009

Curcumin inhibits endometriosis endometrial cells by reducing estradiol production. ran J Reprod Med. 2013

Comparison of the effects of Matricaria chamomila (Chamomile) extract and mefenamic acid on the intensity of premenstrual syndrome. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2014

The effect of aromatherapy abdominal massage on alleviating menstrual pain in nursing students: a prospective randomized cross-over study. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013

A Systematic Review of Human Trial Results Reported for the Ayurvedic Herb Ashwagandha. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2014

Prolactin and cortisol levels in women with endometriosis. Braz J Med Biol Res. 2006

Rujuta Diwekar is the nutritionist who has transformed many lives with her healthy and hearty take on eating well. In a health-centric world where deep-fried food is seen as the ultimate foe of a nutritious diet, Diwekar begs to differ. She recommends eating pakodas during the monsoon and has even listed the benefits of doing so in one of her videos on Instagram. And in Indian cuisine, where ghee is much valued, she advises including it in everyday meals, and for a good reason. Diabetics, especially, can benefit a great deal by adding desi ghee to their diet, especially when wheat rotis are topped with it – and Diwekar has explained why.

What is desi ghee?

Desi ghee, or clarified butter, is much loved in India—some people like topping their roti with it, cooking paranthas in it, or simply adding a spoonful to a bowl of dal. People who have a sweet tooth often smear it over toast and top it with sugar to enjoy a quick and delicious snack. And despite being loaded with a good number of calories, desi ghee is a source of vitamin A, healthy fats, and other traces of essential nutrients. Rujuta Diwekar, in an Instagram video, spoke about the health benefits of ghee that neutralise the negatives. Furthermore, the expert also spoke about the ideal desi ghee portions.

Why should diabetics eat desi ghee?

Diwekar says in the video that ghee is celebrated in Ayurveda as it is considered medicinal. Eating ghee can be a good way to enhance the flavour of food, but it also works well to treat congestion and a cold. Ghee, as per Diwekar, promotes a healthy gut and curbs inflammation as well. Vitamin A in it can be beneficial for skin and hair health. However, smearing it on atta rotis can be particularly beneficial for diabetes patients, as it can reduce the glycaemic index of wheat.

For a diabetic, uncontrolled high blood sugar can be deadly or may have severe consequences. This is why it is imperative to eat foods that have a low glycaemic index because these do not cause blood sugar spikes as such – these slow-digesting foods release sugar into the bloodstream gradually.

How much ghee should you eat every day?

In the Instagram video, Diwekar said that based on what one is eating, one must add a proportionate amount of ghee. For instance, in a dal-rice preparation, you can add a teaspoon, but if you are preparing a millet like ragi, then you need to add more ghee. However, the portions should not completely overshadow the actual flavour of the food.

Read more: Cardiologists Lift The Lid On Whether Ghee Is Unhealthy For Your Children

What are the health benefits of eating ghee daily?

Desi ghee is meant for all – even heart patients. It supports heart health and reduces cholesterol, thanks to the omega-3 fatty acids in it. This nutrient nourishes the brain and helps keep heart diseases at bay as well. If eaten right, it could also go a long way in supporting your weight loss goals. And if you are looking for a way to improve skin and heart health, consider topical application of ghee or simply adding a spoonful to your dal or smearing half a teaspoon on your roti.

Eat everything, eat right, and do not forget to give a generous touch of ghee to your food.

Energy drinks are quite popular among adolescents, students, athletes, and even working professionals who use them for a quick energy boost.

Now, a Texas family has alleged that their 17-year-old daughter has died from an enlarged heart caused by ingesting large amounts of caffeine present in a popular energy drink.

Larissa Nicole Rodriguez, a college-bound high school student in Weslaco, Texas, died in October last year.

According to her family’s attorney, Benny Agosto Jr., Rodriguez often drank Alani Nu energy drinks, which “had inadequate warnings about the serious cardiac risks that this product brings”, NBC News reported.

As per Agosto, Rodriguez began drinking energy drinks after being influenced by social media posts that advertised them for their wellness and health benefits, in addition to an energy boost.

The family has filed a lawsuit against the distributors Glazer’s Beer and Beverage and Glazer’s Beer and Beverage of Texas, and is seeking more than $1 million in damages.

During a press conference, Agosto noted that Rodriguez had no pre-existing heart conditions or heart-related problems. He added that the medical examiner tested for myriad drugs and that “everything was negative, not one trace of alcohol or anything. The only thing she had in her system was caffeine.”

How Much Caffeine Is Healthy

The US Food and Drug Administration permits 400 mg of total daily maximum of 400 mg of caffeine for healthy adults, and less than 100 mg of caffeine per day for children and teenagers ages 12 to 17.

However, Alani Nu’s drinks contain a far higher concentration of caffeine than some other popular energy drinks on the market, the report said.

Celsius Inc., which owns Alani Nu, in a statement said that it is “saddened by this loss, and our thoughts are with the family. We take product safety seriously and believe consumers should have clear information about

what they are drinking.”

“Alani Nu energy drinks disclose 200mg of caffeine on the can, and the label states the product is not recommended for children, people sensitive to caffeine, pregnant women, or women who are nursing,” the statement said. “Our products comply with applicable federal labeling requirements, and our policy is not to market or sample to anyone under 18, consistent with those label warnings.”

What Are The Health Risks Posed By Energy Drinks

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), too much consumption of energy drinks is on the verge of becoming a major public health problem.

A 2025 study published in Frontiers stated that regular consumption of energy drinks, especially sugar-free varieties, may damage the brain's protective barrier (blood-brain barrier) and trigger inflammation.

The study, conducted on mice, also linked these apparent "health drinks" to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis.

Other studies have shown that the short-term effects of ingesting high amounts of caffeine are increased heart rate, nervousness, palpitations, and dehydration.

Energy drinks have also been known to cause:

• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Hypertension
• Seizures
• Psychosis
• Sudden cardiac arrest

Although fatalities directly linked to energy drinks are still uncommon, they are occurring often enough to raise legitimate alarm among health professionals and scientists alike.

Despite growing evidence, laws governing the promotion and production of energy drinks are lax, particularly in the United States and Europe.

Experts from the WHO, in the 2025 review, advocated stricter regulation—including establishing a maximum amount of caffeine per serving, labeling of warning messages, and public awareness of the risks of combining energy drinks with alcohol.

Parkinson’s Disease is traditionally characterized by motor symptoms such as tremor and dyskinesia, although non-motor symptoms, in particular gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as constipation and incomplete emptying, are often the first markers of the disease and may precede the motor symptoms by years.

GI dysfunction is reported in approximately 70-80 per cent of Parkinson’s patients, mediated in large part through the gut-brain axis (GBA).

Speaking to HealthandMe, Dr Paresh Doshi, Director of Neurosurgery and Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery at Jaslok Hospital and Research Center, GBA, is an established two-way network that links the GI tract and the central nervous system (CNS). The connection is multifaceted, involving the vagus nerve, the enteric nervous system (ENS), the immune system, and a vast number of microbial metabolites and neuroendocrine signals.

“Constipation is seen in 66 per cent of Parkinson’s patients, attributed to disordered central and peripheral parasympathetic disruption, and can lead to alteration of the gut microbiome, which in turn worsens constipation, starting a feedback loop,” the doctor explained.

What Parkinson’s Patients Must Eat

Dr Sudhir Kumar, Neurologist at Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad, told HealthandMe that changes in the gut microbiome may influence inflammation, α-synuclein aggregation, and symptom progression.

Practical dietary principles for Parkinson’s patients include:

• Prefer fiber-rich, plant-based foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains), which support gut microbiota
• Include fermented foods (curd, buttermilk), which may improve microbial diversity
• Reduce ultra-processed and pro-inflammatory foods
• Ensure adequate hydration (helps reduce the risk of constipation, a common non-motor symptom)
• Protein timing matters: Levodopa competes with amino acids for absorption.

These gut-targeted interventions are promising adjuncts to conventional Parkinson's therapy, and improving patient quality of life.

Parkinson’s Treatment With Dance, Art

Beyond gut-brain axis, research has proven that unconventional therapy, like dance and art, can improve Parkinson’s treatment.

A 2024 study published in the Scientific Reports found that tango, particularly Argentine tango, improved Parkinson's symptoms like thinking problems or balance issues. It also led to a significant improvement in recognizing emotions on people's faces.

Dr Kumar said dance therapy improves balance, gait, and coordination; provides rhythmic cueing, which enhances motor performance, and improves mood and motivation (dopamine-related pathways).

Similarly, art therapy has been shown to improve overall visual-cognitive skills and visual exploration strategies as well as general motor function in patients with Parkinson’s. The changes in brain connectivity highlight a functional reorganization of visual networks, as revealed by a study published in Parkinsonism & Related Disorders.

Dr Kumar said art and creative therapies are also helpful in enhancing cognitive engagement. It may help with executive function and emotional well-being and provide a non-verbal outlet for expression. However, these therapies work best as adjuncts, not replacements, to standard treatment, the expert noted.

World Parkinson’s Day 2026

World Parkinson's Day is observed annually on April 11 to raise global awareness of Parkinson’s disease, the world's fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorder.

It highlights the need for early diagnosis, research, and support for the nearly 10 million people living with the condition. The day marks the birthday of Dr. James Parkinson, who first described the disease in 1817.

The theme of World Parkinson's Day 2026 is "Bridge the Care Gap." It reflects a critical challenge that persists despite advances in medical research: many people living with Parkinson's still lack consistent access to specialist care, affordable treatment, and integrated support systems.

Parkinson's disease affected 11.9 million people in 2021 and will affect 25.2 million people globally by 2050, representing an alarming 112 per cent rise.