The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged people not to put their faith in local untested remedies for coronavirus.
The advice comes at a time when at least three African heads of state have said they are importing large quantities of a herbal tonic which the president of Madagascar claims can cure the virus.
But its efficacy has not been proven by scientific peer reviews, and even Madagascar's own national medical academy has cast doubt on it.
In a statement, the WHO says it welcomes the use of traditional medicines in the search for potential treatments but it warns that they must first be robustly tested.
Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina launched a product based on the artemisia plant last month when it had been tested on fewer than 20 people.
He says clinical trials will start next week.
Latest Stories
-
Kufuor Scholar champions Agricultural Innovation through Fidelity GreenTech Challenge
6 mins -
EPL: Isak scores at home again as Newcastle beat Arsenal
15 mins -
I’m proud that despite all the challenges, we have maintained Free SHS – Akufo Addo
4 hours -
Alan’s running mate, KOD says GRASP will revolutionize care for the Elderly in rural areas
4 hours -
Election 2024: Alan paints Accra yellow as the crowd marches through the capital with him
4 hours -
Vacant seats: Speaker has not done what would have led to greater peace – Kofi Bentil
4 hours -
Police on manhunt for Adabraka daylight robbers
4 hours -
Lordina Mahama presents medical supplies and equipment to Tishigu Health Center
4 hours -
Lordina Mahama urges Ghanaians to prioritise regular health screenings
4 hours -
EC to reassess decision on presidential ballot printing next week – Dr Bossman Asare
5 hours -
Shark attacks surfer, 61, on Hawaiian island of Maui
5 hours -
29 Nigerian children may be sentenced to death for protesting against cost-of-living crisis
5 hours -
Nigerian becomes first black woman to lead major political party in the UK
5 hours -
Perception issues affecting Supreme Court – Nii Armah Addy
6 hours -
Armed men bolt with cash at Adabraka market in dramatic daylight robbery
6 hours