The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) has warned consumers not to use herbal supplements containing Tongkat Ali due to concerns that the ingredient may cause cancer, the Dutch Times recently reported.[1] Tongkat Ali, scientifically known as Eurycoma Longifolia, is a plant native to Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and India. The herb, commonly known as "Malaysian ginseng," has traditionally been believed to have a variety of health benefits, but it has recently gained popularity as an aphrodisiac.
Widely used in Asia, restricted in Europe
While Tongkat Ali is widely used for medicinal purposes in Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia, in Europe products containing the herb are primarily marketed as sexual enhancement supplements. The NVWA has ordered retailers to stop selling these products and withdraw them from the market, warning that sellers who continue to offer them may face fines.[2]
Regulations and EU bans
Tongkat Ali is classified as an herbal supplement in Europe. Prior to May 15, 1997, products containing Tongkat Ali were rare on the European market and were classified as "nutritional supplements." However, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) later determined that tongkat ali poses a toxicity risk and is a possible carcinogen, and as a result, its sale in the EU was banned [3].
NVWA investigation and seizures
The NVWA investigation into tongkat ali began after receiving reports from other EU member states about its sale in the Netherlands. In June and July, NVWA inspectors found that 10 of the 16 companies investigated were selling products containing tongkat ali. A total of 11 products were seized and destroyed, and the NVWA reported the names of the companies to the authorities in their respective countries to prevent further trade in these items [4].
Consumer advice
Due to the potential cancer risk, the Dutch Medicines Agency urges consumers to avoid using these products and to carefully check the ingredient list on the packaging. Consumers are also encouraged to report any Dutch or online stores that are still selling tongkat ali products. Any side effects associated with the use of these products can be reported to the Dutch Centre for Adverse Drug Reactions [5].
References
[1] NL Times (October 2024). "Dutch Authority Warns Consumers Against Tongkat Ali Herbal Supplements Due to Cancer Risk." Accessed from NL Times on [specific date].
[2] NVWA Press Release (September 2024). "NVWA Orders Withdrawal of Tongkat Ali Products from the Market." Published on the official NVWA website, detailing the recent investigation and product recall.
[3] European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Report (2024). "Toxicological Risks Associated with Herbal Supplements Containing Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali)." EFSA's comprehensive assessment concluding the carcinogenic potential of the herb.
[4] NVWA Inspection Report (June-July 2024). "Inspection of Dutch Companies Selling Products Containing Tongkat Ali." Official report from NVWA detailing the findings from inspections at 16 companies, with a focus on the products seized.
[5] Dutch Lareb Adverse Drug Reaction Center (2024). Information and reporting mechanism for side effects related to Tongkat Ali. Available via Lareb's official website at lareb.nl.