In the latest development in the ongoing debate over alternative treatments, acclaimed actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu has come forward to address the criticism she received for her recent social media post advocating hydrogen peroxide nebulisation as a treatment for viral infections. The controversy was ignited when Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, widely known as ‘The Liver Doc,’ harshly criticized her recommendation, labelling her as “health and science illiterate” and warning that such treatments could be detrimental to health.
Samantha, who is revered in the film industries of Telugu and Tamil cinema, took to Instagram to defend her stance. In an extensive post, she clarified that her suggestion was not made lightly and was rooted in her personal experiences and extensive research. “I am not naive enough to go about strongly advocating a treatment. I merely suggested it with good intentions because of all that I have faced and learnt in the last couple of years,” she explained.
The actress elaborated on her extensive medical journey over the past few years, noting the various treatments she had undergone. “I’ve had to take many different types of medicines. I’ve tried everything I was strongly advised to take, as recommended by highly qualified professionals,” she wrote. “Many of these treatments were also very expensive, and I often felt fortunate to be able to afford them, unlike many others who cannot.”
Despite her access to top-tier medical care, Samantha revealed that conventional treatments did not yield significant improvements in her condition. “Conventional treatments weren’t making me better. There’s a good chance it was just me, and I am sure they will work very well for others,” she acknowledged. This personal struggle led her to explore alternate therapies and treatments, ultimately discovering courses of treatment that were not only effective for her but also significantly less expensive than traditional healthcare options.
Samantha made it clear that her recommendation for hydrogen peroxide nebulisation was not a whim, but a well-considered suggestion backed by a professional in the medical field. “End of the day, we all depend on educated doctors to guide us. This treatment was suggested to me by a highly qualified doctor who holds an MD and has served the DRDO for 25 years. Despite his extensive education in conventional medicine, he chose to advocate an alternate therapy,” she pointed out.
Addressing Dr.
. Cyriac directly, Samantha added that she wished for a more compassionate approach from him. “A certain gentleman has attacked my post and my intentions with rather strong words. Said gentleman is a doctor too. I have no doubt that he knows more than I do, and I am quite sure his intentions were noble. It would have been kind and compassionate of him had he not been so provocative with his words, especially the bit where he suggests I should be thrown in prison. Never mind. I suppose it goes with the territory of being a celebrity,” she noted wryly.
Samantha’s post received widespread attention, prompting mixed reactions from the public. While some supported her right to share her personal health journey and insights, others cautioned about the potential dangers of promoting unverified treatments to a broad audience. This debate underscores the ongoing tension between conventional medicine and alternative therapies, especially when public figures take a stand in such matters.
In 2022, Samantha publicly shared that she was diagnosed with myositis, an autoimmune condition that causes muscle inflammation and weakness. Her openness about her health struggles has garnered much public empathy and support. Most recently, she was seen in the Telugu film “Khushi,” opposite Vijay Deverakonda and directed by Shiva Nirvana, further solidifying her standing in Indian cinema.
As the discussion around Samantha’s recommendation continues, it brings to the fore important questions about the role of celebrity influence in healthcare and the importance of scientifically validated medical advice. While personal experiences and alternate therapies hold value for many, the need for careful consideration and consultation with medical professionals cannot be overstated. Samantha’s openness about her health journey might spark further discourse on balancing conventional and alternative treatments in the quest for well-being.
In the end, Samantha’s plea is for understanding and a more empathetic dialogue on health matters. “I only shared what worked for me in my personal health struggle. Everyone should make informed decisions based on professional medical advice,” she concluded, hoping to mitigate the backlash and encourage thoughtful conversation.
