A serious health scare has gripped South Australia after a person was hospitalized with severe lead poisoning following consumption of ‘Kamini,’ a complementary medicine. Known as Multani Kaminividravana Rasa or simply Kamini, the product is marketed as a ‘powerful stimulant’ to boost energy and vitality. However, its alleged hidden risks have triggered a health emergency.
South Australian health authorities have uncovered alarming levels of lead and mercury, two highly toxic metals, in Kamini. These tablets were reportedly purchased from a Southeast Asian grocery store in the region but are believed to have been imported from overseas. Adding to the concern, ongoing tests are underway to determine if the product contains opioids like codeine and morphine, which could significantly increase the risk of dependence and overdose.
Dr. Chris Lease, SA Health’s executive director of health protection and regulation, has issued a stern warning to the public against consuming Kamini. He emphasizes that this medicine has not undergone Australia’s mandatory quality, safety, or efficacy assessments by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). ‘Not only does the presence of heavy metals in the tablets pose a serious risk to your health, the potential inclusion of opioids also creates a high risk of dependence, further escalating potential harm,’ Dr. Lease stated.
SA Health has alerted emergency departments and general practitioners to be vigilant for symptoms of lead poisoning in patients, particularly those displaying unexplained issues like stomach pain, headaches, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating. Medical professionals are encouraged to conduct blood tests to identify lead levels in such cases.
Authorities are taking decisive action to curb the import and sale of Kamini, warning store owners that distributing it is illegal in Australia. The TGA is actively collaborating with the Australian Border Force to prevent further shipments of Kamini, which continue to infiltrate local stores and online platforms.
This is not the first time authorities have raised concerns about Kamini. In 2016, Australia issued an advisory stating that these tablets presented ‘a serious risk to your health and should not be taken.’ The advisory urged people to stop taking Multani Kamini Vidrawan Ras tablets or Ayurvedant Kamini Vidravan Ras tablets and dispose of any remaining tablets safely.
This recent incident underscores the critical importance of relying on TGA-approved medicines and the dangers of consuming unverified traditional remedies. The South Australian health authorities’ response highlights their commitment to protecting public health and ensuring the safe use of medicines within the country.
