Do Ayurvedic Medicines Contain Metals?

Do ayurvedic medicines contain metals? This is a question that many people are asking these days. The answer, unfortunately, is yes. Many ayurvedic medicines do contain metals, which can be dangerous for your health if not taken under proper guidance.

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that has been around for thousands of years. Ayurvedic products are becoming more and more popular, and people are starting to become interested in the ingredients that are used in these products. Unfortunately, some of the ingredients used are not well-known, and there is a lot of misinformation about them.

In this blog post, we will discuss the topic of metal contamination in ayurvedic medicines. We will look at the evidence that exists on this topic and try to answer the question of whether or not these products contain metals and how much.

Do ayurvedic medicines contain metals?

Yes, it has been found that Ayurvedic products do contain metals. One study found that out of 33 tested samples, 23 contained metals. Most common metals included nickel, chromium, cadmium, aluminum, arsenic, and lead. These products were from different companies and included both oral and topical ayurvedic products.

Another study looked at the heavy metal content of ayurvedic medicines in India. This study found that lead, mercury, and arsenic were the most common contaminants. The levels of these contaminants varied depending on the product and company, but some products had very high levels of metals.

What is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India thousands of years ago. It is based on the belief that good health and well-being come from a balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurvedic practitioners use a variety of techniques to restore this balance, including diet, exercise, meditation, and massage.

Ayurvedic remedies basically revolve around your doshas. Dosha is the Ayurvedic term used to describe the three energies that are present in every person. These energies are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha has its own qualities and characteristics.

Ayurvedic products are made from natural ingredients, including plants, minerals, and metals. These products are thought to be safe and effective because they are all-natural. However, there is no regulation of these products in most countries, so it is important to do your research before purchasing any ayurvedic product.

What Studies Say About Metal Poisoning From Ayurvedic Medicines?

There have been a few studies conducted on the topic of metal poisoning from ayurvedic medicines.

Study 1: National Library of Medicine

A study published in the National Library of Medicine in 2017 investigated the heavy metal content of ayurvedic medicines. This study found that of 252 Ayurvedic medicine samples tested, 65% contained heavy amounts of lead, 38% had mercury, and 32% had arsenic. The study came after the reports of lead poisoning among users of Ayurvedic medicine surfaced. The levels of these contaminants varied depending on the product and company, but some products had very high levels of metals.

Study 2: NSW Health

Another study, published in 2020, reported a child experiencing elevated levels of lead in the bloodstream. The child was taking Manasmithra Vatika, an Ayurvedic medicine prescribed for complexities like anxiety, OCD, sleep disorder, etc. Laboratory analysis of the child’s blood sample found the presence of lead and other heavy metals. Lead poisoning is associated with symptoms like stomach pains, constipation, tiredness, nausea and vomiting, headache, and seizures.

Study 3: Minnesota Department of Health

Researchers at the Minnesota Department of Health found that one out of every five Ayurvedic medications bought online contained mercury, lead, or arsenic. Children of Indian descent living in Minnesota have reported high levels of lead or mercury in their blood that was associated with the usage of Ayurvedic medicines.

List of Deadly Toxic Metals Found in Ayurvedic Products

Ayurvedic medications and products have been found to contain a variety of metals. Some of these metals are essential for the human body, while others are toxic. The following is a list of some of the most common metals found in ayurvedic products:

Lead:

Lead is a metal that can be found in small amounts in the human body. It is essential for the production of red blood cells and for the proper functioning of the nervous system. However, too much lead can be toxic. Lead poisoning can cause symptoms like stomach pains, constipation, tiredness, nausea and vomiting, headache, and seizures.

Mercury:

Mercury is stored in the spleen, brain, kidneys, and blood in trace amounts, reflecting its prevalence in the environment. However, exposure to mercury in more than the required amount can cause severe complications like brain damage, kidney failure, and ultimately death.

Arsenic:

Arsenic is a metalloid element that can be found in small amounts in the human body. It is essential for the proper functioning of enzymes and for the synthesis of DNA. However, exposure to arsenic can cause cancer, liver damage, and even death.

Cadmium:

Your body is exposed to cadmium through foods that contain this heavy metal. Cadmium is stored in your kidneys, liver, and bones. Exposure to cadmium can cause kidney damage, bone damage, and cancer. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms after consuming Ayurvedic medicines, it could mean cadmium poisoning.

Chromium:

Chromium is a transition metal that is essential for the human body in small amounts. It helps with the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. However, exposure to chromium can cause lung cancer.

Aluminum:

Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth’s crust. It can be found in small amounts in the human body. Aluminum is essential for the proper function of enzymes. However, exposure to aluminum can cause Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders.

Nickel:

Nickel is a micronutrient found in trace amounts in the body. It is involved with lipid metabolism and hormonal activity. However, an overdose may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal problems.

These are just a few of the known metals that have been found in ayurvedic products. It is important to do your research before taking any ayurvedic product, as they can be very dangerous. Some ayurvedic products have even been recalled due to high levels of heavy metals.

Who Are at Risk of Metal Poisoning?

Anyone can be at risk of metal poisoning if they are taking ayurvedic products that contain heavy metals. However, some people are more susceptible to the effects of heavy metal poisoning than others.

• Children and infants: Children and infants are more vulnerable to the effects of heavy metal poisoning because their bodies are still developing.
• Pregnant women: Pregnant women are also more vulnerable to the effects of heavy metal poisoning because they can pass the toxins on to their unborn children.
• Elderly: The elderly are also at a higher risk for complications from heavy metal poisoning because their bodies are not as efficient in metabolizing and excreting toxins.

If you think you or someone you know has been poisoned by an ayurvedic product, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Heavy metal poisoning can be very dangerous and even fatal if it is not treated promptly.

Why Heavy Metals Found in Ayurvedic Medications?

So why do these products contain metals? There are a few reasons.

1. First, many of the herbs used in these products are grown in areas where there is contamination from industrial pollution.
2. Second, during manufacturing, Ayurvedic practitioners may not follow proper safety protocols to prevent contamination.
3. Finally, some of the metals may be intentionally added to these products as they are believed to have medicinal properties. 

Whatever the reason, it is important to be aware that these products may contain heavy metals and to take precautions if you do decide to use them.

How to be Safe From Toxic Metals During Ayurvedic Therapy?

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from exposure to heavy metals if you do decide to use Ayurvedic products.

Research

First, do your research. Not all Ayurvedic products are created equal. Some manufacturers are more reputable than others and may have higher quality control standards.

Product Certification

Second, look for products that have been certified by an independent organization like the US Pharmacopeia or Good Manufacturing Practices. These certification programs test for the presence of heavy metals and other contaminants.

Seek Professional Guidance

Finally, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any Ayurvedic product, as they may have other recommendations on how to stay safe.

By following these simple tips, you can help protect yourself from exposure to heavy metals and other toxins in Ayurvedic products.

FAQs About Metals in Ayurvedic Medicines

Some ayurvedic medicines do contain metals but don’t worry. Here are a few tips on how to avoid them.

Q1. Which Ayurvedic medicine has heavy metals?

There is no one ayurvedic medicine that has heavy metals. Many ayurvedic products may contain heavy metals, depending on the manufacturer and the quality control standards.

Q2. Can Ayurvedic medicines be harmful?

Yes, Ayurvedic medicines can be harmful if they contain heavy metals. Heavy metal poisoning can cause a number of serious health problems, including organ damage, neurological problems, and even death.

Q3. What medicines have heavy metals?

Many medicines, including some ayurvedic products, may contain heavy metals. It is important to do your research and talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medication, as some medications may be more dangerous than others.

Q4. Do Ayurvedic medicines contain lead?

Yes, lead is the primary heavy metal found in ayurvedic products. Other heavy metals, such as mercury and arsenic, may also be present.

Conclusion

Ayurvedic medicines are popular alternative treatments, but many of these products contain heavy metals that can be dangerous to your health. Be sure to do your research and talk to your healthcare provider before taking any Ayurvedic product, as some products may be more hazardous than others. By following these simple tips, you can help protect yourself from exposure to heavy metals and other toxins in Ayurvedic products.

Do you have any questions about the safety of Ayurvedic products? Leave a comment below, and we will do our best to answer them!