19 Illegal Herbal Products Withdrawn By BPOM, Can Cause Heart Problems To Risks Of Death
JAKARTA The Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) has again revealed the circulation of illegal herbal medicines. Throughout August 2025, there were 19 herbal products or natural ingredients (OBA) that proved dangerous because they contained medicinal chemicals (BKO).
Of these, 12 products were found through direct supervision (offline), while the other 7 came from online platforms.
The Head of BPOM Taruna Ikrar explained that most of the confiscated products claimed to increase male stamina, but turned out to contain sildenaphiles, an active substance commonly used to overcome erectile dysfunction.
Selain itu, ditemukan juga produk petal linu yang mengungsi paracetamol hingga obat pelagsing yang mengungsi sibutramin.
This BKO should only be used in doctor prescription drugs. If used carelessly, the side effects can be serious, ranging from heart problems, unstable blood pressure, to death," explained Taruna, quoted from the official BPOM website.
According to BPOM, the practice of mixing BKO into herbal products is a form of serious fraud. Many people believe that they consume natural ingredients, when in fact there is a mixture of hard drugs in them.
"This is dangerous and damages people's trust in natural materials-based products," said the cadet.
As a follow-up, BPOM attracts all illegal products from the market to be destroyed. In addition, BPOM blocks online sales links. BPOM also investigates business actors.
If found guilty, the perpetrator can be charged with Article 435 Jo. Article 138 paragraphs (2) and (3) Law no. 17 of 2023 concerning Health, with the threat of imprisonment of up to 12 years or a maximum fine of IDR 5 billion.
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BPOM reminds the public to be more vigilant when buying herbal products, especially those sold online shops. Some safe tips include:
- Always check the distribution permit number on the packaging. The validity of the permit can be checked through the BPOM Mobile application or the official website www.pom.go.id.
- Don't easily believe in excessive claims or unreasonable promotions.
"BPOM will continue to tighten supervision to ensure the medicines and foods in circulation are safe, useful, and quality." concluded Taruna.