Audio By Carbonatix
The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged people not to put their faith in local untested remedies for coronavirus.
The advice comes at a time when at least three African heads of state have said they are importing large quantities of a herbal tonic which the president of Madagascar claims can cure the virus.
But its efficacy has not been proven by scientific peer reviews, and even Madagascar's own national medical academy has cast doubt on it.
In a statement, the WHO says it welcomes the use of traditional medicines in the search for potential treatments but it warns that they must first be robustly tested.
Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina launched a product based on the artemisia plant last month when it had been tested on fewer than 20 people.
He says clinical trials will start next week.
Latest Stories
-
Alleged student rape and extortion did not occur on campus – KNUST replies
3 hours -
23-year-old man jailed 7 years for defiling 12-year-old girl
3 hours -
Assin Fosu Assembly commends Zoomlion’s waste collection efficiency
3 hours -
Prime Insight to spotlight LGBTQI+ Bill debate and Black Stars campaign this Saturday
3 hours -
Newsfile to tackle S.A. xenophobia, galamsey, mine tensions and dumsor this Saturday
3 hours -
Ernest Chemists supports Ghana Prisons Service as medicine shortage deepens healthcare crisis
3 hours -
3 Ghanaians win prestigious award for ‘Best Responsible AI Implementation’ in the world
3 hours -
Ghana’s economy stabilising, open for big business again – Mahama to business leaders
3 hours -
MTN hosts wealth and wellbeing masterclass to drive financial literacy and sustainable success
3 hours -
CEO Network Ghana pushes ‘global champions’ strategy to transform Ghana’s economy
4 hours -
Real Madrid title hopes fading after Betis draw
5 hours -
Akyem Abuakwa State Council declares Etweresohene persona non grata at all palaces in Okyeman
6 hours -
Ghana’s democracy is a reality, not an illusion – Prof Lumumba
6 hours -
Behind Nigeria’s murky coup plot – the money, the prayers and a Nollywood arrest
6 hours -
Julius Debrah’s 60-year Journey: From Akorabo’s classrooms to Okaishie to the Flagstaff House
6 hours