Is it true that eating garlic and ginger can prevent COVID-19?

The COVID-19 disease, including its prevention and treatment, is currently a hot topic of discussion in the community. Recently, there has even been news that ginger and garlic can prevent the transmission of this disease. So, is this true?

To date, COVID-19 has infected more than 85,000 people from various countries. Mild symptoms caused by this virus can resemble flu symptoms, such as sore throat, runny nose, headache, cough, and fever.

Since there were 2 Indonesian citizens who were reported to be positively infected with the Corona virus, there was concern about the transmission of this disease in Indonesia. As a result, many people are looking for ways to protect themselves from this infection. One of them is by consuming ginger and garlic.

Can Ginger and Garlic Ward off COVID-19?

Garlic does contain compounds that have antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties that are good for health. In fact, this distinctive-smelling spice is believed to increase the work of white blood cells in fighting viruses that cause coughs and colds.

In addition, regularly consuming a few cloves of garlic per day is also believed to reduce cholesterol and blood fat levels, and reduce the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. However, there is no evidence that garlic consumption can prevent COVID-19.

Ginger contains an active compound called gingerol supposed to be able to fight respiratory syncytial virus that causes respiratory tract infections. RThis spice, which has a slightly spicy taste, has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

You can use the distinctive pungent aroma of ginger as a way to overcome anosmia. In addition, the consumption of ginger tea can also help reduce the formation of mucus in the nose of people with COVID-19.

The use of ginger in pregnant women has been shown to reduce nausea. In addition, ginger is also thought to reduce pain in arthritis and menstruation, as well as relieve dyspepsia.

However, as with garlic, there is no evidence that ginger can prevent or treat Corona virus infection.

The most effective prevention of COVID-19 is by washing hands, keeping a distance from people suspected of being infected with the Corona virus, and maintaining body immunity.

There is nothing wrong if you want to eat garlic and ginger. Besides being able to increase endurance, these two spices can also add to the taste of your food.

Even so, remember that garlic and ginger have not been proven to prevent Corona virus infection, let alone cure it. If you experience flu symptoms, such as cough, runny nose, and fever, don't hesitate to immediately go to the nearest doctor, okay?

In addition, you can also consult via chat in the Alodokter application first. If you really need a doctor's examination directly, you can make an appointment with a doctor at the hospital through this application.