WebMD has just released My Abuelita Told Me, a new five-part video series developed in partnership with Dr. Juan Rivera (“Dr. Juan”), a board-certified internist and cardiologist, who is well-known for his best-selling books and regular appearances on broadcast television.  My Abuelita Told Me explores the reliability of the various home remedies, beliefs and established practices that beloved abuelitas have passed down through the generations, and Dr. Juan clarifies what is or isn’t accurate using medical science.

The fast-paced videos, which are enlightening and engaging, are being featured on both English– and Spanish-language editorial destinations on WebMD.com. A wide-range of supporting content accompanies the videos, including articles, slideshows, and quizzes, to provide viewers with a comprehensive look at the various remedies being explored by Dr. Juan.

You can view the five-part video series in Spanish at www.webmd.com/mi-abuelita-me-dijo – or in English at www.webmd.com/my-abuelita-told-me.

“My life passion has been helping others live better, healthier, and more fulfilled lives,” said Dr. Juan. “One of the ways I do this is through education, disseminating the most accurate and up-to-date information on today’s pressing health issues and concerns. I’m excited to have found a like-minded partner in WebMD, reaching more audiences than ever before.”

Episode Synopses: ‘My Abuelita Told Me’

Minor Burns? Egg Whites vs. Aloe

Dr. Juan relates to his own abuelita suggesting home remedies for minor burns. One woman asks, “Can egg whites help to treat minor burns?” Dr. Juan debunks this myth, stating that while the coldness of the egg may provide temporary relief he does not recommend it due to the risk of salmonella within the egg. Instead, Dr. Juan suggests using fresh aloe-vera to treat minor burns.

Can Pennies, Potatoes or Urine Get Rid of Warts?

This video discusses the treatment of common warts caused by human papilloma virus (HPV). Dr. Juan explains that because a wart is a virus, it can rapidly spread if you do not treat it immediately. One of the most recommended treatments of warts is salicylic acid. So while urine may have acidic properties, it is not a good remedy for warts. Instead,  it’s best to use over-the-counter creams or freezing technologies at the doctor’s office and leave abuelita’s advice alone.

The Right “Mejunje” to Lower Your Blood Sugar

Toss your abuelita’s “mejunje” – a homemade concoction of raw egg, salt, pepper, lime juice, garlic and cilantro – and pick up some prickly pear cactus instead. None of these ingredients is proven to lower blood sugar, and the taste alone leaves much to be desired. Nopal, or prickly pear cactus, is high in fiber and contains pectin, both of which help decrease blood sugar absorption in the stomach and intestines. In this video, Dr. Juan gives a fresh take on the “mejunje” that can help start your day off right.

Using Mezcal to Lower Your Blood Pressure?

This video discounts one abuelita’s suggestions that the Mexican liquor mezcal can lower blood pressure. While a small amount of alcohol does dilate your blood vessels, chronic alcohol use actually narrows your blood vessels. Dr. Juan recommends ditching the mezcal and drinking hibiscus tea instead. Drinking hibiscus tea daily for six weeks is proven to lower blood pressure safely and effectively.

Cure a Stomach Ache With Tortillas

Dr. Juan agrees, the heat from a warm tortilla or a heating pad could help alleviate stomach pains. Abuelita advises that both placing a tortilla on your stomach and eating some could help with the pain. While this simple and accessible home remedy uses heat to block pain receptors, eating may aggravate the stomach more. In this video, Dr. Juan additionally highlights his own abuelita’s home remedy for acid reflux, which could help ease stomach pain.

“WebMD and Dr. Juan share a strong commitment to providing quality, trusted health information in plain, accessible language, and our collaboration on My Abuelita Told Me represents a great opportunity to dispel fact from fiction for both Spanish- and English-speaking audiences,” said Kristy Hammam, WebMD editor-in-chief. “My Abuelita Told Me furthers our mission and commitment to develop new and compelling programming for the Hispanic community.”