Stop using groundnut, vegetable oil as lubricant – Health experts warn

A medical expert has cautioned sexually active individuals against using groundnut or vegetable oil as lubricants during intercourse. Taofeek Adeleye, Senior Manager for Prevention Programmes at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, addressed this issue during a national training session for media personnel on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis on August 20, 2026.

Adeleye strongly advised against utilizing substances like palm oil, vegetable oil, or other household products as substitutes for commercially manufactured lubricants. He recommended water-based lubricants as a safer alternative, asserting their suitability for such purposes. The medical professional also provided guidance on scenarios where lubricants are unavailable, suggesting personal saliva as an alternative, rather than saliva from another person.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of using well-fitting condoms, stressing the significance of selecting the appropriate size. These recommendations were part of broader discussions on HIV prevention and safer sexual practices, as health professionals continue to urge the public to make informed choices that minimize the risk of sexually transmitted infections.