Life style
Ginger, not a ‘cure’ for COVID-19

Enjoy ginger, but it’s not a ‘cure’ for COVID-19, says WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that while natural remedies such as ginger can have a “positive impact on your health,” they are by no means a medically proven treatment for fighting COVID-19.
Michael Ryan, executive director of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, made the comments after many posts continued to be widely shared on social media touting ginger and other natural remedies as cures for the novel coronavirus.
The WHO said ginger is not a medically proven treatment for fighting COVID-19.
“I think we have to be careful with what we would consider to be the traditional remedies that people use for making themselves feel better,” said Ryan during a press briefing from Geneva recently
He added: “During a common cold or the flu or any illness… some of us like to take a drink with honey, some like to take ginger, some of us take special herbal teas.
“Anything that makes one feel better, anything that provides that reassurance and anything that you believe can help your health that’s not dangerous certainly has a positive impact on your health, but it’s a different thing to say that something is effective in treating the disease,” he added.
Ryan’s statement comes as governments attempt to tackle misinformation being spread on social media about effective cures for the novel coronavirus, with ginger – a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant – a recurring feature of such remedies.
Multiple posts have been shared tens of thousands of times on Facebook claiming that ginger can cure the novel coronavirus if it is boiled and eaten on an empty stomach.
One post that was shared more than 38,000 times read: “Cure for coronavirus – In case you contract this… don’t eat for 24 hours. And boil ginger and drink it like water but it has to be hot… You will drink it for 3 days continuously.”
Health experts, including the WHO, have rejected such home remedies as cure-alls against COVID-19, and have warned against sharing advice that hasn’t been approved by recognized health institutions or doctors.
Facebook, alongside social media competitors including Twitter and YouTube, have also started barring users from posting harmful information about COVID-19 on its platforms, with several African nations teaming up with such technology giants to fight misinformation on the continent.
Twitter has also been tweaking its algorithm to elevate medical information from authoritative sources – an initiative available in 70 countries.
South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, made clear his concern when he declared a national disaster in March.
“Perhaps the greatest dangers to our country at this time are fear and ignorance,” he said. “We should stop spreading fake and unverified news and creating further apprehension and alarm.”
Supply and demand
But despite the WHO throwing hot water on ginger as a cure-all for COVID-19, the medicinal qualities of the “wonder-root” has seen it fly off supermarket shelves around the world.
Some nations, such as Ethiopia, have reported a three-fold increase in ginger prices, with social media users around Europe complaining about shortages in supermarkets.
Dwindling supplies have in part been attributed to increased demand during the pandemic, but also the impact of the novel coronavirus on the root’s supply chain.
The spread of COVID-19 has taken its toll on shipments from the world’s biggest exporter of ginger, China, which has an export market worth $402 million per year according to global data analytics company Garay.
“Overseas market demand for Chinese ginger is still quite large, but many countries have closed their borders,” Kevin Li, from the Chinese food import-export company Qingdao Sinonut, told the fresh produce industry news site Fresh Plaza.
“Chinese companies have difficulty transporting their products to overseas markets.”
He added: “The COVID-19 pandemic has created much uncertainty in the international ginger market. Ginger exporters do not know whether their deliveries will reach the client on time or at all.”
“Some Chinese companies therefore decided to limit their ginger export volume and in doing so avoid the risk of greater financial loss.”
With the financial risks caused by the pandemic forcing a decline in exports, Li explained that the global ginger market would only get back to normal once the coronavirus crisis had subsided.
“Our export price increased by 20 percent and demand is still high, but only when the COVID-19 pandemic is under control can we increase our deliveries.”
Until that point comes, those who are struggling to find ginger in the times of coronavirus may take solace in advice from the WHO’s Michael Ryan:
“If you have your favorite remedy that you use… like ginger, please continue to support yourself through the illness, but please let us avoid making assumptions without evidence that certain things can cure COVID-19.”
Fashion
Showcasing the epitome of elegance and craftsmanship

Pure Gold by Tiesh has a well renowned Sri Lankan actress Yehali Tashiya Kalidasa as its brand ambassador. She is a multi-faceted young personality who has made her international debut in Pakistani cinema, and perfectly embodies the essence of the Pure Gold by Tiesh brand.
Tiesh, recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless designs, launched thier latest filigree collection under its subsidiary, Pure Gold by Tiesh. Imported from the best jewellery houses in Europe, Italy, Turkey, and Dubai, this collection features a stunning array of Italian 18-karat jewellery and 22-carat gold pieces adorned with pearls.
The newly unveiled filigree collection showcases a range of breathtaking earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings that exude elegance, dynamism, and vitality. With pieces available in tri-colours, rose gold, white gold, and yellow gold, Pure Gold by Tiesh has curated this collection with careful attention to detail, catering specifically to the wedding season.
Director Thiyasha expressed the brand’s dedication to excellence, stating, “Our jewellery stands out compared to other bridal jewellers. We are deeply invested in every aspect, from design to quality and craftsmanship. Our customers have repeatedly expressed their satisfaction, stating that our collections surpass those of many leading jewellery houses.”
What sets the filigree collection by Pure Gold by Tiesh apart is its versatility, allowing each piece to be worn in multiple ways. With a commitment to inclusivity, Tiesh caters to diverse cultures and ethnicities, offering something for everyone, from beautiful Hindu brides to Muslim brides and traditional Kandian brides.
Director Ayesh De Fonseka elaborated on the collection’s uniqueness, saying, “Each piece is distinct and one-of-a-kind. What’s truly captivating about this collection is its transformative aspect. We are reintroducing our special ring that transforms into a bangle, a design we first introduced in Sri Lanka in 2015.”
The dazzling filigree collection showcases the sheer intricacy and timeless allure of filigree work through an exquisite range. The inclusion of transformative jewellery adds an innovative touch to the collection, setting it apart from Tiesh’s other offerings. Every piece of jewellery from Tiesh is a fusion of traditional and trendsetting elements, allowing customers to express their individual preferences. This exclusivity distinguishes the brand from its competitors, while the meticulous attention to detail adds a touch of modern luxury to each creation.
“We wanted a collection that could complement any look: beautifully paired with your favourite watch, worn as a classic stack of bangles, or simply worn alone for a more subtle appearance,” Thiyasha further added.
The campaign surrounding the filigree collection not only celebrates the grandeur and glamour of modern Sri Lankan women but also pays tribute to the rich culture and bridal market. Tiesh continues to be at the forefront of the jewellery industry, offering exquisite designs that capture the hearts and desires of jewellery enthusiasts worldwide.
Life style
Fellowship and networking

Institute of Hospitality Sri Lanka
The Institute of Hospitality, Sri Lanka International branch had their 31st Annual General Meeting recently meeting at Movenpic Hotel Colombo followed by cocktails and fellowship.
This is an annual event, organised by the President Dr. Harsha Jayasinghe and Executive Committee of the Institute.This event is organised for members of the Institute of Hospitality who have shown their dedication and commitment to the tourist industry.
The evening started with a speech from the President of the Institute Dr. Harsha. He spoke about the challenges ahead for the hospitality industry. Sri Lanka is making progress and economy is slowing signs of settling down. There are many tourists to Sri Lanka and this is definitely positive signs for the country said Director/CEO of National Development Bank Dimantha Seneviratne.
It was an entertaining evening with many members of the hospitality industry in attendance. The General Manager of the Movenpick hotel Roshan Perera gave his unstinted support to make a successful event The Chief Guest Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management Shirantha Peiris also spoke
Fashion
Denara Eid Durbar

The Denara Vocational Training Institute a subsidiary of the All Ceylon Muslim Women’s Association is for the first time conducting a full day’s programme comprising a mini Eid Bazaar, Sale of items produced by the students of Denara and Cuty Rose and an evening of entertainment. It will be open to the public on Saturday,17th June from 9 am to 5 pm and entrance tickets to the exhibition are priced at Rs. 100/- .
Denara was established in October 2021 where courses in dressmaking, needlework, computer classes, cookery classes and Mehendi Art have been carried out. Despite the economic crisis, and all the challenges endured during these past few years, Denara has been able to still conduct the above classes giving many opportunities to the youth. The Vocational and Training Institute is supported by the All Ceylon Muslin Women’s Association, a reputed charity organization of 70 years history to date!
More than 200 items will be exhibited and available for sale, in addition to bed linen, table linen, cushion covers, cloth bags, and others lovingly crafted with beautiful hand embroidery.
Different to regular exhibitions and sales, a second part is being introduced to the day’s activities where a complete Moghul feel will take over! Ambassador for Turkey Demet Sekercioglu, Ambassador for Turkey in Colombo will grace the exhibition at 4 pm.
A spokesperson from the organising committee said that it will be a festive occasion in keeping with Eid, where an evening of music and games, a fashion show by the students of Denara and Cuty Rose showcasing their creations will be held not only to encourage the talented students who have worked hard to showcase their talents, but also to create an entertaining afternoon. The widely acclaimed Muslim Chorale Choir will make a guest appearance complementing the occasion. The day’s proceedings will conclude with a light dinner where tickets for this are priced at Rs. 3,000/- and already available for sale at the Denara Vocational Training Institute Office located at 191/50, Mangala Gardens, Colombo 5. . Please call on 077 853 9890 for further details.
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