A 19-year-old woman in Madurai died after consuming a chemical substance promoted as a traditional weight-loss remedy in a YouTube video, triggering fresh concerns over online health misinformation and unsafe self-medication practices.
According to police sources, the deceased, Kalaiyarasi of Meenambalpuram, had been following a YouTube channel that allegedly promoted the use of Vengaram (Borax) to reduce body weight. Acting on the video’s advice, she reportedly purchased the substance from a country medicine shop on East Masi Street on January 16.
Consumption and sudden illness
Police said Kalaiyarasi consumed the substance at her residence around 9 am on January 17. Shortly after ingestion, she developed severe vomiting and diarrhoea. Alarmed by her condition, her parents rushed her to a private hospital in Munichalai, where she was treated and later discharged.
However, her symptoms returned by evening. She was then taken to a nearby clinic for further treatment. As her condition continued to deteriorate, the family rushed her to Government Rajaji Hospital around 11 pm. Doctors declared her dead on arrival, police said.
Police inquiry underway
Following the incident, Kalaiyarasi’s father, Velmurugan (51), lodged a complaint at Sellur (Law & Order) police station on January 18. Based on the complaint, police registered a case and have begun an inquiry into the suspicious death.
Investigators are examining the source of the substance, the role of the shop that sold it, and the YouTube content that allegedly promoted its consumption. Officials said further action would be taken based on post-mortem and forensic reports.
Rising concern over online remedies
Health experts have repeatedly warned against following unverified medical advice on platforms such as YouTube, especially involving chemicals or traditional remedies without professional supervision. Borax is a chemical compound not approved for human consumption and can be toxic if ingested.
Authorities have urged the public, particularly young people, to seek qualified medical advice for weight management and health concerns and to avoid self-treatment based on social media content.