Coronavirus: Minister warns against use of herbal products

Minister of State for Health, Sen. Olorunnimbe Mamora has cautioned Nigerians against the use of herbal products to protect themselves from Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Mamora spoke in Abuja when he appeared on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)’s Forum.

“There have been so many claims by some Nigerians that bitter kola can be used to cure coronavirus. It is true that bitter kola has anti-viral properties, but I am not sure how the anti-viral properties affect coronavirus. I have also heard of garlic, lemon, palm wine, and even chloroquine

“We caution against the use of so many herbal drugs because science has a basis and there is a procedural process to laying claims to whatever,’’ he said.

Mamora advised Nigerians not to panic, declaring that people should allow themselves to be “ruled by facts, not fears”.

He said that the best prevention was to practice good personal hygiene by washing hands under running tap water with soap or ash, as well as the steady use of hand sanitisers.