Buklkax V and All Seasons Detox Kit recalled for lead, arsenic
A herbal laxative and detox kit are under recall for unacceptably high levels of lead or arsenic.
St. Francis Herb Farm Inc. is voluntarily recalling Buklkax V and All Seasons Detox Kit after the company's product tests showed levels of the heavy metals, Health Canada said Wednesday.
Buklkax V is promoted as a herbal laxative for children aged six and older and adults. All Seasons Detox Kit is promoted as a herbal detox kit for use by adults.
"Lead and arsenic are heavy metals and can pose serious health risks when too much is ingested, particularly to children, and pregnant and breastfeeding women," Health Canada said.
Tests started by the Combermere, Ont.-based company showed the herbal laxative had lead at over seven times the acceptable limit and arsenic at double the limit. The detox kit showed lead at over twice the acceptable limit.
Health Canada said ingesting excessive amount of the heavy metals poses serious health risks because the metals may accumulate in our vital organs.
The toxic effects of lead include:
- Abdominal pain.
- Anemia.
- Loss of appetite.
- Constipation.
- Fatigue.
- Sleeplessness.
- Irritability and headache.
- Changes in blood pressure.
- Reproductive effects such as miscarriage.
- Weakness.
- Concentration problems.
- Weight loss.
- Dizziness.
- Kidney and brain damage.
For pregnant women, consuming products with higher arsenic levels may increase risk of pre-term birth, stillbirth and miscarriage. Children and adults who are exposed to arsenic may experience side-effects such as stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramping, weakness, skin rash, numbness or tingling and loss of movement.
The affected lot numbers and expiry dates are available in Health Canada's advisory.
