A “herbal cure for duodenal ulcer” that “sure works” is a liquid made from mixing fresh maize
kernels and garlic, reports a message posted on the “Beauty & Health Arena” Facebook page in Nigeria. “
“Take half cup twice daily for a week
and repeat it every two weeks,” it says.
The post shows a shot
of maize cobs and garlic cloves.
Open sores on the upper portion of the small intestine, known as the duodenum,
or the inner lining of the stomach are duodenal ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers.
Can they be
healed by this remedy?
Mostly bacteria-induced ulcers
Africa Check told Jesse Otegbayo, a gastroenterologist consultant and professor of medicine at the
University of Ibadan, that the maize and garlic combination would not cure peptic ulcer.
“This condition is mostly caused by bacteria in the stomach called Helicobacter pylori. Until the bacteria are killed by a group of antibiotics and acid-reducing medications, an ulcer cannot be cured,” he said
Maize is mainly a carbohydrate containing a protein
called zein that does not affect ulcers, Otegbayo said.
“Garlic is a cooking spice that stimulates the secretion of acid. The acid in the stomach is one of the causes of duodenal ulcer.”
He added that when people with duodenal ulcers eat, gastric acid neutralizing
chemicals are secreted in the duodenum, allowing the person feel some relief.
“People with symptoms of ulcers should see a doctor, because not every stomach pain is associated with an ulcer,” he said.
SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN
