No Proof Aspidosperma Can Increase Blood Oxygen Levels
The Claim
A homeopathic remedy called Aspidosperma can increase blood levels immediately when taken in doses of 20 drops in a glass of water, making it a treatment for COVID-19 patients.
News posted on
Emerging story
News that has gone viral on social media, especially Facebook, claims that a homeopathic remedy called Aspidosperma Q 20 can increase oxygen levels in the blood. The claim has risen against the backdrop of a sharp increase in COVID-19 infections in India and a dire shortage of medical oxygen.
Misbar’s Analysis
Aspidosperma, also known as quebracho-blanco, is a herbal or homeopathic remedy known for treating asthma and conditions of the lower respiratory tract. According to NCBI, several species of Aspidosperma plants are referred to as remedies for malaria treatment, especially Aspidosperma nitidum. However, it is not a substitute for medical oxygen, which is required in COVID-19 patients.
According to Dr. Mukhtinder Singh, Chairman of India’s Institute of Homeopathic Physicians, there is no “clinically verified data with COVID-19 cases to categorically vouch for the efficacy of Aspidosperma.” Since there is not enough research, it is unclear whether the remedy increases oxygen levels immediately, nor the possible complications and side effects of or COVID-19 patients.
Moreover, the Indian Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy) tweeted that Aspidosperma did not immediately increase oxygen levels and warned against self-medicating.
Since the possible complications and side effects are unknown, the consumption of the Aspidosperma could pose an even greater health risk. There is no evidence and sufficient research that Aspidosperma will cause an immediate increase in blood oxygen levels. Hence the Misbar team confirms the claim is misleading.
