TikTok influencers are promoting a home remedy to boost the immune system that could cause botulism
No, fermenting garlic in honey is not a replacement for antibiotic or antiviral meds
A homemade elixir combining garlic and honey, promoted by TikTok influencers as an immune system booster, could actually cause botulism, according to health experts. While both ingredients have some antimicrobial properties, fermenting garlic in unpasteurized honey at room temperature can promote the growth of Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which cause deadly botulism.
Storing the mixture at room temperature further increases the risk. Health Canada spokesperson Karine LeBlanc warns that fermenting garlic in honey can lead to botulism, a rare but deadly disease. Symptoms include muscle weakness, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, the infection can cause death.
While the disease is rare, with only 243 confirmed cases in 2021, it can be fatal if left untreated. Health experts urge against using homemade remedies instead of approved medications and recommend consuming raw garlic and honey instead of fermenting them together.
Written by urgent.news from Scientific American's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
