Madurai: Student Dies After Consuming Borax for Weight Loss on YouTube

A 19-year-old Madurai college student died after consuming borax for weight loss, inspired by a YouTube video. She experienced severe vomiting and dizziness and was declared brought dead at a hospital. Police have launched an investigation.

A second-year college student in Madurai died after allegedly consuming borax (venkaaram) in an attempt to reduce her body weight in Madurai. The 19-year-old deceased woman is identified as Kalaiyarasai, a resident of Meenambalpuram. She started consuming borax in order to reduce weight, thinking that borax would help her in her weight loss journey.

Influence of Social Media

According to police sources, on January 17, during the early hours of Saturday, she allegedly consumed borax after watching a YouTube video. The video claimed that borax can be consumed and that it can be used for weight reduction. Soon after ingesting the substance, she started feeling like vomiting and experienced dizziness.

Medical Emergency and Death

After reporting her bad condition, she was initially taken to a private hospital for treatment. However, later in the night, at around 11 p.m., she again started experiencing like severe vomiting and dysentery. As per the police statement, "she was immediately rushed to the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai for further treatment, but doctors declared her brought dead on arrival."

Police Investigation Underway

Based on a complaint lodged by her father, the Sellur police have registered a case and launched an investigation. The exact reason for the death of the 19-year-old would be confirmed only after the post-mortem report is received, police officials stated. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)