Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, South Africa's health minister from 1999 to 2008, has died. Never far from controversy, Tshabalala-Msimang's views on the treatment of HIV/Aids drew international condemnation, especially her advocacy of beetroot, garlic, and African potatoes as nutritional supplements to fight the disease.
"History will not be kind to Dr Beetroot"
This led to her being dubbed "Dr Beetroot" by critics. Her views on the use of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in the treatment of Aids often provoked vehement opposition from both Aids activists and experts.
In 2004, she said: "I have always said there are three options ... and we must remember that ARVs are not a cure and they do have side-effects."
She said at the time that garlic, lemon, olive oil and beetroot "are absolutely critical - first of all to have a beautiful face and beautiful skin - but they also protect you from disease".
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