The BC Centre for Disease Control has issued a warning about a series of herbal products that were found to be filled with lead and mercury.
The BCCDC wants people to throw out anyproducts purchased from the A1 Herbal Ayurvedic Clinic Ltd. in Surrey, as “these ayurvedic products have been found to contain lead and mercury, and are not authorized for sale by Health Canada,” according to a news release.
Fraser Health issued the A1 Herbal Ayurvedic Clinic Ltd., located at #31 – 8430 128th St., a closure order pursuant to the Public Health Act, following an inspection, said the BCCDC. Health Canada has seized products, ingredients and equipment from the clinic and is “warning the public that they could pose serious risks. Taking these items can lead to severe illness and even death.”
The BCCDC says that at least one client of the clinic became ill from lead poisoning.
“If you have bought products from this clinic and have concerns about your health, please see a physician and inform them about the items you have been taking,” said a news release. The BC Drug and Poison Information Centre is available to work with your physician on any needed diagnosis or treatment.”
Symptoms of lead poisoning include:
- Anemia
- Headaches/irritability/ slowed thinking
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Miscarriages/stillbirth
“Most ayurvedic products and other traditional remedies and ingredients are imported from abroad,” said the BCCDC. “While many products can be used safely, some contain ingredients that are poorly described or not listed on the labels, making it difficult to know how they will affect your health.”
