Philippines: Geckos Won't Cure AIDS

Put down that gecko: The Philippine health department is warning citizens that using geckos to treat AIDS, asthma, and tuberculosis doesn't work and endangers those who don't seek proper treatment. There's no scientific evidence to the folklore behind the practice, and it's caused an increase in illegal trade of the reptiles—which are reportedly also shipped to Malaysia, South Korea, and China, where they're also used as aphrodisiacs. An 11-ounce gecko reportedly sells for $1,160 in the Philippines, according to the AP. (More Philippines stories.)