An 82-year-old woman in Zhejiang Province, China, made headlines after swallowing eight live frogs in an attempt to relieve chronic lower back pain. The elderly woman, identified only as Zhang, reportedly believed in local folklore that claimed swallowing live frogs could ease body pain and improve internal health.
According to local reports, Zhang’s unusual self-treatment quickly turned dangerous. Shortly after consuming the frogs, she experienced intense abdominal pain and was unable to walk due to the discomfort. Her family rushed her to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
Folklore Behind the Dangerous Self-Treatment
In many rural parts of China, traditional and folk healing methods are still practiced despite having no basis in modern medical science. Some communities believe that consuming live animals, especially frogs, can help balance internal energy or treat chronic pain.
Zhang reportedly followed this folklore advice after years of suffering from persistent lower back pain. However, medical experts have warned that such practices are extremely dangerous and can lead to parasitic infections, digestive damage, and blood disorders.
The woman’s son told doctors that she had swallowed eight frogs alive, believing it would bring immediate pain relief. Instead, her health deteriorated rapidly, and she was left in severe pain before receiving medical attention.
Doctors Find Signs of Internal Damage
Upon examination, doctors discovered that Zhang’s digestive system had suffered serious damage due to the ingestion of the live frogs. Tests revealed an increase in oxyphil cells, which are often linked to parasitic infections or hematologic diseases.
The medical team treated her for internal inflammation and possible infection. After two weeks of hospitalization, Zhang’s condition stabilized, and she was discharged with strong advice to avoid any such unscientific remedies in the future.
Medical professionals stressed that swallowing live animals poses a high risk of infection, including exposure to bacteria and parasites commonly found in amphibians. Such organisms can enter the bloodstream, causing severe systemic infections and long-term organ damage.
Medical Experts Warn Against Unverified Folk Remedies
Health authorities have since used this incident to raise awareness about the dangers of unverified folk remedies. Experts emphasized that traditional beliefs should never replace proper medical diagnosis and treatment.
According to doctors, elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable to misinformation regarding traditional healing methods. Pain management and age-related ailments should always be addressed through evidence-based medicine rather than risky self-experiments.
A public health statement urged citizens to seek professional help for chronic pain and to avoid resorting to dangerous self-treatment methods that could worsen their condition.
The case highlights the importance of health education, especially in rural communities where folklore-based practices remain widespread. While traditional beliefs often reflect cultural heritage, many lack scientific proof and can lead to serious health consequences.
Doctors in Zhejiang have reiterated that no natural or alternative treatment should involve consuming live animals. They encouraged patients experiencing persistent pain to consult medical specialists for safe and effective solutions.
Zhang’s case serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of trusting unscientific health myths. Despite her recovery, doctors warned that her internal organs may take months to fully heal.
