Which products of Himalaya wellness Ayurveda are substandard?

Himalaya Wellness Ayurveda, a well-known brand in the herbal products industry, has faced allegations regarding the quality of its flagship product, Liv.52, and several other brands. Reports suggest that these products have been deemed substandard and found to contain adulterants such as counterfeit medicines and steroids. 

Himalaya Wellness faces allegations over product quality

The Uttarakhand Ayurveda Drugs Controller office has issued a stern warning to the public, advising against the consumption of these herbal products. In an order reminiscent of caution, the office has effectively called for a ban on the sale of these items, including Liv.52.

According to a Twitter post shared by Arif Hussain Theruvath, allegations have surfaced regarding Liv.52's substandard quality, coupled with claims of adulteration with counterfeit medicines. In a series of events dating back to September 2023, "The Liver Doctor" levelled accusations against Himalaya Wellness Ayurveda, alleging cowardice on their part. He claimed that his team conducted a study revealing liver injuries among Liv.52 consumers. However, Himalaya refuted these claims, citing them as defamatory and baseless.

The situation escalated further when a study on liver injury linked to Liv.52 faced obstruction from Himalaya, preventing its publication in the Frontiers in Pharmacology journal. This move raised concerns among medical practitioners and whistle-blowers regarding the suppression of scientific findings.

Himalaya Wellness Ayurveda Company's flagship product Liv.52 has been found to be substandard and adulterated with counterfeit medicines and steroids along with other brands.

1/4 pic.twitter.com/2CC360navr

— Arif Hussain Theruvath (@arifhussaintm) April 26, 2024

Addressing the matter, a spokesperson from the Himalaya Wellness Company declined to comment, citing ongoing legal proceedings. However, the spokesperson emphasized the company's longstanding reputation and commitment to quality, spanning nearly 90 years.

Social media reacts, concerns persist

In response to the allegations, Dr. Philips, known as "The Liver Doctor," defended his claims, asserting that each post he made was supported by scientific evidence. He argued that the legal action taken against him was an attempt to silence his criticisms, highlighting the need for scientific rebuttals rather than legal manoeuvres.

The unfolding events have sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with supporters of Dr. Philips expressing outrage over the perceived suppression of vital information. However, this is not the first legal tussle Dr. Philips has faced, having previously encountered challenges from various groups and organizations.

Moreover, concerns over the quality of Himalaya Wellness Ayurveda's products are not entirely novel. In August 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) imposed an import alert on some of Himalaya Drug Company's cosmetic products due to concerns over color additives.

The company spokesperson claimed that the products examined by the FDA authorities could have been meant for the Indian market sold in the US illegally. The spokesperson said that all Himalaya cosmetic products sold in the US market adhere to the USFDA guidelines.

The purpose of an Import Alert is to identify and disseminate import information to FDA personnel. Import Alerts identify problem commodities and/or shippers and guide import coverage. 

Dyes in personal care products can cause some type of negative reaction to your skin or body, such as sensitive skin, redness, itching, or eye irritation. Studies suggest that food coloring additives might be linked to hyperactivity in children, allergies, and potentially even cancer. 

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