FDA lab finds lead, arsenic and mercury in “Balguti Kesaria”

[Update: 11/1/2017] An FDA laboratory analyzed a sample of “Balguti Kesaria” and confirmed it contained lead in addition to arsenic, and mercury. FDA continues to warn parents and caregivers to not use this product. Exposure to these heavy metals could lead to serious adverse health effects. Anyone who is using “Balguti Kesaria” or giving it to a child should stop immediately and see a health care provider to be evaluated for potential heavy metal poisoning.

[8/4/2017] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning parents and caregivers not to use “Balguti Kesaria (or Kesaria Balguti) Ayurvedic Medicine” due to the risk of lead poisoning. 

This product is sold online and manufactured by multiple companies, including Kesari Ayurvedic Pharmacy in India. Individuals have also mailed or brought the product into the United States. “Balguti Kesaria Ayurvedic Medicine” is used with infants and children for a variety of conditions including rickets, cough and cold, worms and dentition (teething).

FDA has not reviewed this product for safety or effectiveness. Exposure to lead can cause serious damage to the central nervous system, the kidneys and the immune system. In children, chronic exposure to lead—even at low levels—is associated with impaired cognitive function, including reduced IQ, behavioral difficulties, and other problems. Anyone who is using this product or giving it to a child should stop immediately and consult a health care professional.

FDA initially learned of this risk from the North Carolina Division of Public Health after the product was tested and found to contain high levels of lead. FDA was also notified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services of high levels of lead in two children who were given this product. Michigan’s testing also found high levels of lead in the product.

To date, FDA has received one adverse event report of high levels of lead and developmental delays in a child who was given this product. Health care professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events potentially related to “Balguti Kesaria Ayurvedic Medicine”or any other alternative medicines to FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program by:

• Completing and submitting the report online at MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form.
• Downloading and completing the form, then submitting it via fax at 1-800-FDA-0178.