Ayurvedic medicine has been gaining popularity in the alternative health arena. Whilst it is outside the scope of this post to discuss all that entails this ancient medicine practice, it does encompass its own specific preparations and medicines which I would like to highlight.
In fact, “Some Ayurvedic preparations include metals, minerals, or gems. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that the presence of metals in some Ayurvedic products makes them potentially harmful.
A 2015 published survey of people who use Ayurvedic preparations showed that 40% had elevated blood levels of lead and some had elevated blood levels of mercury. About one in four of the supplements tested had high levels of lead and almost half of them had high levels of mercury.”
I bring this up because I have recently heard of yet another lead contamination with Ayurvedic preparations this time right here in Australia.
”Some Ayurvedic preparations may contain lead, mercury, or arsenic in amounts that can be toxic”.
National Centre for Complimentary and Integrative Health
Dr Angie Bone the Deputy Chief Health Officer has issued a health warning for health professionals and consumers. And Victoria’s health department has issued this warning, “People taking the Ayurvedic medication ‘Manasmithra Vatika’ (Manasamitram Pills), should stop immediately and speak with their GP about blood lead testing,”
So… “If you’re pregnant or nursing, be sure to consult your (or your child’s) health care provider as some Ayurvedic products may contain products that could be harmful.”
Lead toxicity symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, constipation, tiredness, nausea and vomiting, headache and seizures.
If you reside in Australia and have elevated blood lead levels as a result of Ayurvedic preparations, you can contact The LEAD Group and be part of their Blood LEAD Challenge survey and receive results-based personalised advice.
Xx Tammy
References
Breeher L, Mikulski MA, Czeczok T, et al. A cluster of lead poisoning among consumers of Ayurvedic medicine. International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health. 2015;21(4):303-307.
Meiman J, Thiboldeaux R, Anderson H. Lead poisoning and anemia associated with use of Ayurvedic medications purchased on the Internet—Wisconsin, 2015. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2015;64(32):883
