Is the medicine you bought safe? Shocking lead contamination warning!
- Replies 5
We know that our health is an asset that needs to be maintained and taken care of. Keeping a close eye on our physical activities, food habits, and medications is a crucial part of this.
In a world that's ever more globally connected, we find a delightful range of products from different corners of the globe right at our local stores.
It feels incredible to discover traditional remedies from far-off lands sitting on the shelves of our grocery stores, doesn't it?
Alas, sometimes, beneath the exotic allure lurk hidden dangers.
In a rather alarming development, an official warning has been recently issued by the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.
This heads-up, issued on behalf of Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton, throws a spotlight on a group of traditional Indian medications known as 'Ayurvedic medicines', which have been found to contain none other than lead and other scheduled poisons
This spurs us to wonder, how is lead even remotely threatening? Most of us remember from our school days’ science classes that lead was formerly used in pencils, prior to the emergence of graphite as a substitute.
That aside, exposure to even small amounts of this heavy metal over long periods can lead to irritability, loss of appetite, difficulties with memory and concentration, and poor coordination.
In worse cases, poisoning can result in abdominal pain, constipation, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and even seizures—a frightful list, indeed.
It’s worth noting that the department has recorded cases of lead poisoning caused by the intake of such medications, and most disturbingly, these health-compromising products had been imported from overseas.
A crucial indicator of the product's safety seems to be the presence of an AUST R or AUST L number—these validate the product as approved for supply by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
The department said, 'Anyone who is using Ayurvedic medicines purchased or imported from overseas or purchased in Victoria where the product does not have this number should stop consuming the product immediately.'
In light of these disturbing discoveries, we urge our members to exercise utmost vigilance. Be aware of what you're consuming, especially when purchasing health products originating from overseas or even locally.
The health department has made it clear, 'If you buy unregulated medicines, either from a local retailer or online, you may be wasting your money and/or risking your health.'
The department strongly advises individuals who may be experiencing symptoms associated with lead poisoning to undergo screening for lead toxicity.
For immediate assistance in cases of poisoning or if you suspect someone has been poisoned, please contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26. Their dedicated team is available 24/7 to offer guidance and support.
Do you or anyone you know from Victoria take Ayurvedic medicines potentially affected by this warning? If so, don’t hesitate to pass this on!
Remember, your health is non-negotiable and prevention, they say, is better than cure.
In a world that's ever more globally connected, we find a delightful range of products from different corners of the globe right at our local stores.
Lead poisoning can cause abdominal pain as one of its symptoms. When lead enters the body, it can affect various organs, including the gastrointestinal system, leading to abdominal discomfort, cramping, and pain. Source: Shutterstock
It feels incredible to discover traditional remedies from far-off lands sitting on the shelves of our grocery stores, doesn't it?
Alas, sometimes, beneath the exotic allure lurk hidden dangers.
In a rather alarming development, an official warning has been recently issued by the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.
This heads-up, issued on behalf of Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton, throws a spotlight on a group of traditional Indian medications known as 'Ayurvedic medicines', which have been found to contain none other than lead and other scheduled poisons
This spurs us to wonder, how is lead even remotely threatening? Most of us remember from our school days’ science classes that lead was formerly used in pencils, prior to the emergence of graphite as a substitute.
That aside, exposure to even small amounts of this heavy metal over long periods can lead to irritability, loss of appetite, difficulties with memory and concentration, and poor coordination.
In worse cases, poisoning can result in abdominal pain, constipation, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and even seizures—a frightful list, indeed.
It’s worth noting that the department has recorded cases of lead poisoning caused by the intake of such medications, and most disturbingly, these health-compromising products had been imported from overseas.
A crucial indicator of the product's safety seems to be the presence of an AUST R or AUST L number—these validate the product as approved for supply by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
The department said, 'Anyone who is using Ayurvedic medicines purchased or imported from overseas or purchased in Victoria where the product does not have this number should stop consuming the product immediately.'
In light of these disturbing discoveries, we urge our members to exercise utmost vigilance. Be aware of what you're consuming, especially when purchasing health products originating from overseas or even locally.
The health department has made it clear, 'If you buy unregulated medicines, either from a local retailer or online, you may be wasting your money and/or risking your health.'
The department strongly advises individuals who may be experiencing symptoms associated with lead poisoning to undergo screening for lead toxicity.
For immediate assistance in cases of poisoning or if you suspect someone has been poisoned, please contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26. Their dedicated team is available 24/7 to offer guidance and support.
Remember, your health is non-negotiable and prevention, they say, is better than cure.
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