TGA reveals shocking health risks with popular herbal supplement
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Herbal supplements are often seen as a natural and safe way to improve health and well-being.
However, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has recently issued a stark warning about a popular herbal supplement, Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha or winter cherry.
This supplement, widely available in supermarkets, health food stores, and pharmacies, has been linked to severe gastrointestinal problems and even liver injuries in some Australians.
Withania somnifera is a common ingredient in about 320 medicines listed by the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods.
It's often used to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and build strength.
However, the TGA is now investigating its use after dozens of Australians reported severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea after taking the herb.
Some users experienced these symptoms after just a single dose.
Initially, many people mistook these symptoms for food poisoning.
However, their symptoms resolved once they stopped taking the supplement.
In more severe cases, 16 people became so ill that they required hospitalisation.
The TGA has also received 12 reports of Australians developing liver problems after taking the herb.
In seven of these cases, the TGA found sufficient evidence to suggest that the herb was the cause.
In four cases, no other ingredients in the supplements could have contributed to the liver injury.
The TGA's investigation concluded that there is a 'very rare' risk of liver injury from taking Withania somnifera.
The health body has advised anyone with a history of liver problems to avoid taking the herb.
Others should stop immediately if they experience the following symptoms:
'This is a relatively new issue globally, and we are continuing to closely monitor emerging evidence,' the TGA said in a statement.
'If further substantiating evidence arises, regulatory actions will be considered.'
Some actions include the addition of warning labels on products containing Withania somnifera or additional restrictions around its sale.
Have you experienced any side effects from herbal supplements? Share your experiences in the comments below.
However, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has recently issued a stark warning about a popular herbal supplement, Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha or winter cherry.
This supplement, widely available in supermarkets, health food stores, and pharmacies, has been linked to severe gastrointestinal problems and even liver injuries in some Australians.
Withania somnifera is a common ingredient in about 320 medicines listed by the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods.
The TGA has recently issued a warning on the use of herbal supplements that contain Withania somnifera. Image source: Shutterstock.
It's often used to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and build strength.
However, the TGA is now investigating its use after dozens of Australians reported severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea after taking the herb.
Some users experienced these symptoms after just a single dose.
Initially, many people mistook these symptoms for food poisoning.
However, their symptoms resolved once they stopped taking the supplement.
In more severe cases, 16 people became so ill that they required hospitalisation.
The TGA has also received 12 reports of Australians developing liver problems after taking the herb.
In seven of these cases, the TGA found sufficient evidence to suggest that the herb was the cause.
In four cases, no other ingredients in the supplements could have contributed to the liver injury.
The TGA's investigation concluded that there is a 'very rare' risk of liver injury from taking Withania somnifera.
The health body has advised anyone with a history of liver problems to avoid taking the herb.
Others should stop immediately if they experience the following symptoms:
'If further substantiating evidence arises, regulatory actions will be considered.'
Some actions include the addition of warning labels on products containing Withania somnifera or additional restrictions around its sale.
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