The practice of drinking your own urine has become so widespread in the African country of Cameroon that it has prompted the country’s health minister to issue a warning that the habit may not be good for your health.
Although some claim it has always been part of Cameroon medicine, drinking your own urine or “urinotherapy” has grown on the back of health claims that it can help cure ailments such as haemorrhoids, ulcers, infertility and even snake bites. However those that advocate it now face prosecution.
Minister Urbain Olanguena Awono said in a statement: “Given the risks of toxicity associated in the short, medium and long term with ingesting urine, the health ministry advises against the consumption of urine and invites those who promote the practice to cease doing so forthwith or risk prosecution.”
However reports in the local press suggest thought that “urinotherapists” will not be put off.
“I used it to treat my haemorrhoids,” one told the Cameroon newspaper, Le Messager. “Everyone uses it in secret. But you need to be brave,” he said.
Another was quoted as saying: “For several years now, I haven’t had a hair on my head, but since I started drinking my urine, it’s started growing again – it’s quite extraordinary.”
