Researchers have been studying anti-carcinogenic properties of limonoids in laboratories for years. However, they haven’t yet found any conclusive evidence to support its role in cancer treatment or prevention in humans.

By Tej Kumar

A viral WhatsApp video is back with a misleading cancer cure claim, despite being debunked earlier - albeit with minor changes. This time the video claims that when you cut lemon and pour hot water over it, it becomes alkaline and can be effective an anti-cancer drug. Further, it claims that hot lemon juice battles cancerous tumours and can be used to treat all types of cancers.

At First Check, we recently received a request from a reader to help verify the claim.

First, the good news. Scientific studies show that not just lemon, but all citrus fruits contain compounds that may be beneficial in preventing or combating certain types of cancer. According to an encouraging study, at very high levels, limonoids (chemicals found in citrus peels) can slow cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis (cell death).

Researchers have been studying anti-carcinogenic properties of limonoids on mice and in laboratories for years. However, they are yet to find conclusive evidence to support its role in cancer treatment or prevention in humans. No scientific studies have proved that hot lemon water can cure cancer.

Here’s the bottom line: Lemons are healthy foods. There’s every reason to incorporate them in your diet. However, they cannot cure cancer. It’s prudent to opt for evidence-based cancer treatments.