The state Department of Public Health has uncovered several cases of lead poisoning from the use of Jambrulin – a medicinal supplement often sold in Indian and Asian markets.
The product was found to contain about 3.5 percent lead, according to the DPH – a level that prompted the agency Tuesday to caution consumers and market owners about possible adverse health effects. Jambrulin, which is manufactured in India and comes in tablet form, is among Ayurvedic medicinal products that are known to be used in traditional Indian healing practices.
The finding by the Adult Blood Lead Epidemiology and Surveillance Program and Public Health Laboratory is consistent with lab tests of many other supplements and Ayurvedic medicinal products sold nationwide, according to the DPH.
The department warns that ingesting heavy metals can result in “serious health risks,’’ and that infants, children and pregnant women are most susceptible to the toxic effects of heavy metals.
Possible symptoms include: anemia, changes in blood pressure, weakness, concentration problems, weight loss and abdominal pain.
A current list of ayurvedics, herbal remedies, and other medicinal supplements known to contain dangerous levels of contaminants, including heavy metals, has been developed by the New York City Department of Health. Go to the state DPH website for more information.