Uncertainty early in the pandemic left room for all sorts of home remedies to circulate with way more confidence than they'd earned: supplements, specific foods, even alcohol, passed around like settled medical advice. None of it had real evidence behind it, and leaning on it instead of actual care carried its own risk on top of the virus itself. No drink or vitamin has ever been shown to prevent or treat COVID-19; the guidance that actually holds up looks a lot less exciting than a kitchen-cabinet cure.
What you were taught
Dietary supplements or alcohol can prevent or treat COVID-19
What we know now
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that dietary supplements, specific foods (like hot peppers or garlic), or alcoholic beverages can prevent or treat COVID-19. Relying on such methods can be dangerous and delay appropriate medical care.
Updated understanding emerged around 2021
2020s · Health
2020s · Health
2020s · Health