Fact Check: Can water from lemon, bay leaf and turmeric extract cure diabetes? More scientific proof needed

An Instagram video has gone viral with the claim that water strained from boiling sliced lemon, bay leaves and turmeric powder can reduce blood sugar. The video advises viewers to consume the water with a teaspoon of honey.

Fact Check

NewsMeter found that the claim is misleading. There is no scientific evidence yet to prove the claim even if ingredients in the concoction have medicinal properties.

Dr Ravindra Kumar, consultant general physician and diabetologist, Amor Hospital, Kukatpally, Hyderabad said, “The drink suggested in the video might be of some help. But there is no evidence or study which says that this drink will lower blood sugar.”

However, the ingredients mentioned in the recommendation have some medicinal benefits. Lemon has considerable amounts of antioxidants in the form of Vitamin C and flavonoids while bay leaves and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties.

“Spices like bay leaves and cinnamon have some insulin resistance properties which can reduce blood sugar, but this also needs more scientific evidence,” Dr Ravindra Kumar said.

Diabetes cannot be cured by just using home remedies but requires proper medication prescribed by doctors and aided by lifestyle changes.

“For an individual who is diabetic and needs constant monitoring of sugar levels, completely relying on this drink cannot help reduce blood sugar. The individual can use it in moderation along with diet control, physical activity and reducing stress. All these activities can lower sugar levels,” Dr Ravindra Kumar added.

Speaking about the role of honey, Dr Ravindra Kumar said, “Honey has slightly lower levels of sugar with a low glycemic index compared to commonly used white sugar. It is always better to monitor its consumption since honey also has sugar.”