Beware of Unproven "Lung Cleansing" Products Sold Online: What You Need to Know

Unproven "lung cleaning" spray sold on Amazon.Photo byScreenshot: Amazon.

Recently, social media platforms have become hotbeds for promoting so-called "lung cleansing" sprays. These products are being marketed with bold claims that they can remove impurities from the lungs, enhance breathing, and even reduce the risk of lung cancer. But medical professionals warn that these assertions are misleading and unsupported by scientific evidence.

The Spread of False Claims

One of the most shared posts on Facebook in August 2024 features an eye-catching video promising that a "revolutionary drug-free remedy" will cleanse your lungs and help you breathe easier.

The video claims that this spray can "heal" and "rejuvenate" the lungs, purportedly by removing waste from the respiratory tract. These assertions have resonated with many, garnering thousands of interactions.

These products, often sold by companies like Medilisk, have also made their way onto other platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, where they are marketed in multiple languages. They are available for purchase through popular online retailers like Amazon and eBay.

Questionable Products

Medilisk is one of the companies behind these products, and it promotes its lung spray as a remedy for a range of respiratory issues, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even the effects of smoking.

But the company's credibility is dubious at best. It currently holds an "F" rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which has documented numerous complaints against the company.

Moreover, Medilisk's website includes a disclaimer admitting that its products have not been reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite this, a similar product marketed under the brand "LOVILDS" falsely claims to be FDA-approved, using the same imagery as Medilisk in its promotions.

A thorough search of the FDA’s database confirms that neither the spray nor its ingredients have been approved for treating respiratory illnesses. This lack of regulatory approval should be a red flag for anyone considering these products.

Lung spray from Lovilds falsely claims to be FDA-approved.Photo byScreenshot: https://lovmez.com.

Expert Opinions: A Clear Warning

Medical experts have been vocal about the dangers of using these unproven lung sprays. Erica Salem, senior director of strategy, programs, and policy at the Respiratory Health Association, emphasized that there is "no scientific evidence" to support claims that these sprays can detoxify the lungs.

Salem also pointed out that while these sprays often list natural ingredients such as peppermint and eucalyptus, the impact of these substances on lung health is unknown. "Avoid putting things into your lungs, including products that aren't FDA-approved and recommended by your clinician," she cautioned.

Similarly, Tianshi David Wu, an assistant professor of pulmonary and critical care at Baylor College of Medicine, advised against using these sprays, stating that "the lungs already have an elaborate system to protect against infections and remove inhaled irritants."

Obvious Disinformation and Deception

The marketing strategies for these lung cleansing sprays often include endorsements from supposed medical professionals. But investigations have revealed that these endorsements are fraudulent.

For example, one Medilisk ad features an endorsement from a "Dr. Emma Foster" or "Laura White," but no doctors with these names are licensed in the U.S. states where the company is based.

A reverse image search even identified the photo of this supposed doctor as belonging to a Czech physician who has no connection to the product.

The misuse of this doctor's image is a clear example of the deceptive tactics employed by companies selling these products. Such misinformation not only erodes public trust but also poses a significant risk to individuals who might be swayed by these false claims.

Deceptive marketing by Medilisk.Photo byScreenshot: Facebook/AFP Fact Check.

Conclusion

In a world where health misinformation spreads rapidly online, it's crucial to be skeptical of products that make grandiose health claims without credible evidence. Lung cleansing sprays, like those promoted by Medilisk, are not only unproven but potentially harmful. Don't let flashy marketing or false promises jeopardize your health.