UAE | Health
Inspectors find product containing banned herb on sale in Abu Dhabi
Product used to treat Asthma and respiratory problems banned by the Health Authority Abu Dhabi.
- By Dina El Shammaa, Staff Reporter
- Published: 23:04 July 4, 2009
Abu Dhabi: An unregistered product for the treatment of asthma and other respiratory problems was found by the Health Authority Abu Dhabi inspection team to be sold in various outlets across Abu Dhabi.
The product, known as Asthmina Syrup Natural, contains ephedra, also known as ma haung, an ancient Chinese herb traditionally used to treat asthma, colds, congestion and coughs.
The herb was originally used in teas, and is thought to be one of the world's oldest medicines. It is also used for weight loss and as an energy booster.
The use of this herb is controversial, however.
Dr Fatima Al Qahawi, Regulation Officer at the Quality and Safety Lab at the Health Authority - Abu Dhabi (HAAD), explained to Gulf News that the herb is the main source of ephedrine alkaloids, which pose unreasonable risk of illness.
"Ephedra can be found in herbal preparations marketed for weight loss. The product is not registered with the Ministry of Health and is not auth-orised to be sold in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The FDA also prohibited the sale of all dietary supplements containing ephedrine in February 2004," said Fatima.
It is interesting to note that ephedra is also on the US Olympic Committee's list of banned substances.
If taken in large amounts, ephedra could lead to serious heart problems, stroke or even death in otherwise healthy people.
Ephedra's side-effects include insomnia as it is known to increase the heart rate, as well as irritability, nervousness and mood swings.
Some components of ephedra have also been shown to raise blood pressure and to increase blood sugar levels.
In order to warn the public against using such products, the HAAD has issued circular PHM/24/09 to health professionals.
The circular can be found on HAAD's website.
Latest news
- Competition for aspiring photographers
- Dubai porter found dead inside container
- Dubai Municipality plans new zoo in emirate
- Strong winds and haze expected in the UAE
- Dubai Police deny reports of Burj Khalifa fire
- New road eases traffic problems in Dubai
- Abu Dhabi hosts strong man contest
- Farmers to be taught techniques to improve yield
- Keep recycling bins open
- President of Wollongong varsity about his plans
- Challenging role in Libya
- Parachuting event promises rich fare
- UAE ministry backs efficacy of Tas'heel system
- UAE students on research trip to Antarctica
- Brothers held in Sharjah for possessing heroin
Community Reports
-
Keep recycling bins open
People should be allowed to do their part as the world moves towards a greener future
-
Bridges needed
Al Ittihad Road has no pedestrian facilities as one nears Sharjah
-
Street lights needed
Authorities urged to act with haste before a major accident occurs in Al Nahda, Dubai
-
Motorists ignore stop sign on buses
Overtaking school vehicles can put students' lives at risk
