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HEAVY METAL CONTENT OF AYURVEDIC HERBAL MEDICINE PRODUCTS
Citation:
Saper, MD, MPH, R. B., S. N. Kales, MD, MPH, J. PAQUIN, M. J. Burns, MD, D. M. Eisenberg, MD, R. B. Davis, ScD, AND R. S. Phillips, MD. HEAVY METAL CONTENT OF AYURVEDIC HERBAL MEDICINE PRODUCTS. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. American Medical Association, Chicago, IL, 292(23):2868-2873, (2004).
Impact/Purpose:
The objectives were to determine the prevalence and concentration of heavy metals in Ayurvedic HMPs manufactured in South Asia and sold in Boston-area stores, and to compare estimated daily metal ingestion with regulatory standards.
Description:
Case reports of individuals taking Ayurvedic herbal medicine products (HMPs) suggest that they may contain lead, mercury, and/or arsenic. We analyzed the heavy metal content of Ayurvedic HMPs manufactured in India and Pakistan, available in South Asian grocery stores in the Boston area, and intended for oral use. We analyzed each HMP for lead, mercury, and arsenic using X-ray fluorescence. For HMPs containing heavy metals, estimated ranges of daily heavy metal intake for adults and children were calculated using manufacturer's dosage recommendations and compared to EPA, ATSDR, and/or USP allowable standards.