Aristolochic acid
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
Pacific BioLogic recalls Orthoflex, six other supplements for containing cancer-causing chemical in herbs Akebia Trifoliata Caulis (Mu Tong) and Asarum Sieboldii Herba cum Radix (Xi Xin), Clayton, Calif. firm says July 31. Company became aware of FDA policy against aristolochic acid-containing supplements in June, began recall, Pacific BioLogic says. Five hundred bottles of product have been sold since Jan. 1, 2000 but no illnesses have been reported, firm stresses. FDA has issued an import alert on such products, as well as letters to industry, health professionals and consumers (1"The Tan Sheet" April 16, p. 9)