Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a critical safety warning concerning three unapproved Ayurvedic medicines found to contain “extremely high” levels of heavy metals. This alert follows the discovery of unsafe amounts of mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium in these products.
The TGA specifically advises consumers to immediately cease the use of Brahmi Vati tablets and Kumar Kalyan Rasa tablets, both manufactured by Unjha Ayurvedic Pharmacy. Additionally, the same caution applies to Manasamitra Vadakam tablets produced by SKM Siddha and Ayurvedha, which were also found to contain a prohibited herb listed on the TGA’s poisons register.
Understanding the Risks of Heavy Metal Contamination
The presence of heavy metals in these Ayurvedic medicines poses significant health risks. Lead poisoning, for instance, can result in severe long-term health effects, including organ damage and even death, with pregnant women and children being particularly vulnerable. Mercury exposure, even in small amounts, is known to be toxic to the nervous, digestive, and immune systems.
Despite the legal restrictions on importing and supplying unapproved Ayurvedic medicines in Australia, individuals often purchase these products from overseas for personal use. This practice has led to several consumer warnings in recent years, including cases of lead poisoning reported by the Victorian health department earlier this year.
The Growing Popularity of Ayurvedic Medicine
Ayurveda, a traditional medicine system originating from ancient India, is gaining popularity as a complementary approach to conventional medicine. According to Research and Markets, the Australian Ayurvedic herbal market is projected to grow by 11% annually over the next decade, reaching a value of $529 million by 2034.
Naveen Shukla, president of the Australasian Association of Ayurveda, describes Ayurveda as a “time-tested … complete system of medicine” that integrates ancient and modern practices. It aims to balance the energies of the mind, body, and spirit through tailored diets, yoga, breathing exercises, physical therapy, and herbal medicine.
Challenges in Regulation and Safety
Dr. Shukla, a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner in both India and Australia, notes that while most Ayurvedic medicines consist of herbs and minerals, a specialized class includes metallic compounds. These are banned in Australia due to the potential for high levels of heavy metals, which are sometimes used in the extraction process of certain herbs.
He emphasizes the importance of obtaining Ayurvedic medicines from fully insured and registered practitioners who hold an Advanced Diploma in Ayurveda. This ensures compliance with Australian safety standards.
Pathways for Importing Ayurvedic Medicines
While it is illegal to import and supply unregistered Ayurvedic medicines, individuals can legally order them online for personal use, provided they have a prescription or the supply is less than three months. Many Australians opt to order these medicines online, often preferring treatment from familiar practitioners from their home countries.
Dr. Shukla highlights the cost factor, noting that overseas medicines are often cheaper because TGA-approved products undergo strict testing and are typically Australian-made. He advises against compromising on health and encourages consulting Australian practitioners who can offer safe alternatives in line with TGA regulations.
Regulation of Complementary Medicines in Australia
All therapeutic goods sold in Australia, including complementary and traditional medicines, must undergo TGA testing unless exempt. Adjunct Associate Professor Jennifer Hunter from the University of Sydney acknowledges Australia’s robust regulatory framework but notes existing gaps.
Dr. Hunter, a member of the TGA’s Advisory Committee for Complementary Medicines, explains that herbs used for therapeutic purposes can also fall under food standards, complicating regulation. For instance, traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic, or naturopathic practitioners can compound and dispense raw herbs regulated as foods without meeting TGA standards for complementary medicine.
Ensuring Consumer Safety
Consumers are advised to look for an AUST R or L number on products, indicating compliance with Australian standards. An R number signifies “registered” medicines that have undergone comprehensive evaluation, while an L number denotes “listed” medicines with approved ingredients and indications.
Dr. Shukla cautions against self-prescribing Ayurvedic medicines, even those with AUST numbers, stressing the need for proper guidance when used for therapeutic purposes.
As the popularity of Ayurvedic medicine continues to rise, the TGA’s warnings serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of safety and regulation in the consumption of traditional and complementary medicines.
