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.
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