Improve

[Brahman]

Dear teachers,

Which of the following sentences is semantically correct?

1. This drink improves constipation.

2. This drink cures constipation.

Both Oxford and Collins dictionaries define "improve" as "to make or become better". Although Sentence 1 appears to be correct, going by this definition, I prefer Sentence 2. Similar to Sentence 1 are,

3. The new medicine improves diabetes.

4. That treatment will improve your heart disease.

May I have your views, teachers?

[jonathanrace]

I prefer number 2 and hate hearing sentences like 1. To me it will always sound like it is making problems worse and strengthening the ailment.

That being said I do see it written that way more than I'd like so maybe it's more acceptable to others.