A television show, which was unfortunately broadcast on a state-run channel, sparked a frenzy that would be a cause for laughter if it weren’t related to the pain of thousands of people and their false hopes, which a few cunning people seek to exploit.

But the problem is not just about the dangerous antics – which, in fact, should have already prompted the reaction of the so-far conspicuously silent radio and television watchdog (ESR). It’s about how society and the state react to such a case. The Athens Medical Association issued a warning yesterday while the health minister reacted only a day earlier.

Charlatanism is deeply rooted in Greek society, enjoying nationwide exposure by the media. In the past, we have heard of the miraculous water of Kamatero, the blue scorpion of Cuba and now the olive tree leaves. Such myths must be demolished right away. The state’s slow reaction allowed the myth to spread, deceiving many and resulting in one violent death.