The Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) has raised concerns over the growing sale of unregulated herbal medicines and supplements, warning that they pose serious risks to public health.
In a statement, MQHZ Director General Dr Quince Mwabu highlighted the increasing prevalence of products marketed as enhancing physical attributes. He described these claims as deceptive and linked them to a rising incidence of certain cancers.
“The Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia is compelled to issue a public warning about the alarming proliferation of unregulated herbal medicines and supplements in the country, which poses a significant threat to public health. These products have devastating consequences, including complications and deaths,” Dr Mwabu said.
MQHZ noted that unregulated herbal products often contain harmful ingredients, incorrect dosages, or contaminants that can lead to severe health issues. Consumers may be misled by false advertising, assuming these supplements are safe because they are natural.
The organisation urged the public to exercise caution and purchase herbal medicines only from licensed and certified providers. Dr Mwabu emphasized the need for reporting any adverse effects linked to herbal products to health authorities to prevent further harm.
MQHZ also called on regulatory bodies to strengthen monitoring and enforcement measures to curb the circulation of unsafe herbal medicines. The warning serves as a reminder that unregulated health products can have severe consequences, and public vigilance is crucial in safeguarding health in Zambia.