Instagram Blocks Padma Shri-Awardee Herbalist Yanung Jamoh Lego's Account in India, Flags Public Health Danger

Instagram has blocked the social media account of Padma Shri awardee herbalist Yanung Jamoh Lego in India, citing concerns over potential public health risks. The action comes amid growing efforts to curb the spread of unverified medical advice and misleading health claims on digital platforms, where millions of people increasingly seek information about diseases, treatments, and home remedies. Incidentally, Lego was awarded the Padma Shri – the country's fourth highest civilian award for her “remarkable achievements in healing more than 10,000 patients suffering from life-threatening diseases like Cancer, Diabetes, Hypertension, etc., who had lost hope in modern-day Allopathic Treatment through herbal and traditional medicine,” her citation

read. Lego received its award from President Draupadi Murmu in a grand function at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi earlier this week. According to news reports, Jamohlego’s account suspension was taken to prevent the dissemination of content that could endanger public health. While traditional herbal knowledge has played an important role in India's healthcare heritage for centuries, medical experts stress that any health advice shared with the public should be supported by scientific evidence and should never discourage people from seeking appropriate medical care.Also read: Can Jalebi-Rabdi Really Cure a Migraine? Neurologist Reveals the Truth

Why is health misinformation a serious concern?

Health misinformation on social media has become a global challenge. Viral posts promoting unproven herbal cures or alternative treatments can lead people to delay diagnosis, stop prescribed medicines, or avoid evidence-based treatment altogether. Such decisions may worsen chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and heart disease, or even become life-threatening during medical emergencies. Experts say misinformation spreads rapidly because it often promises quick, natural, or inexpensive cures. However, "natural" does not automatically mean safe. Many herbs can interact with prescription medicines, affect liver or kidney function, trigger allergic reactions, or cause serious side effects when consumed in excessive amounts.

Traditional medicine still has an important place

Healthcare professionals emphasize that India's traditional systems of medicine - including Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Sowa-Rigpa, and other indigenous practices - continue to contribute to wellness when used responsibly and under qualified supervision. The concern is not with traditional medicine itself but with unsupported claims that certain herbs can cure serious illnesses without clinical evidence. Public health experts recommend that any treatment for conditions such as cancer, stroke, tuberculosis, severe infections, or diabetes should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider rather than relying solely on social media advice.

How to identify trustworthy health information online

To protect yourself and your family, experts recommend following these simple steps:

• Verify health claims through trusted government or medical sources.
• Be cautious of "miracle cure" or "100% guaranteed" treatment claims.
• Never discontinue prescribed medicines without consulting your doctor.
• Check whether health advice is backed by peer-reviewed scientific research.
• Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms

The bigger public health message

The suspension of Lego's account highlights the growing responsibility of governments, social media platforms, healthcare professionals, and content creators in ensuring that medical information shared online is accurate and evidence-based.As millions of Indians turn to digital platforms for health advice, experts say improving health literacy is essential. Traditional knowledge can complement modern healthcare, but decisions about diagnosis and treatment should always be guided by qualified medical professionals and credible scientific evidence. Careful fact-checking before following or sharing health advice remains one of the most effective ways to protect public health.