⛔
Regulatory ban. This ingredient is banned or restricted in one or more countries. See Regulatory Status below.
About
Enhances insulin signalling via chromodulin; improves insulin receptor sensitivity; glucose and lipid metabolism
How it works (mechanism of action)
Used for blood glucose regulation and sugar cravings in French supplement market. Common in slimming and metabolic products (Arkopharma, Eric Favre).
⚖️ Regulatory Status
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CH — Banned
Swissmedic banned kava in Switzerland due to hepatotoxicity.
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DE — Banned
BfArM banned kava-containing products in Germany in 2002 due to hepatotoxicity risk. Cases of liver failure and death reported.
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US — Banned
FDA issued warning letter against oral comfrey products. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids causing liver damage.
⚠️
CN — Restricted
NMPA China — berberine (berberine hydrochloride) registered as pharmaceutical (OTC drug) for specific indications. Not permitted as general health food ingredient at pharmaceutical doses.
⚠️
EU — Restricted
EFSA (2010) — genotoxicity concerns. Maximum dose levels apply. Several EU member states have restricted high-dose products.
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FR — Restricted
ANSES (2013) — maximum dose restrictions following EFSA genotoxicity concerns.
⚠️
IT — Restricted
Italian Ministry of Health — berberine supplements restricted to max 10mg/day without medical supervision.
💊
AU — Prescription only
DHEA is scheduled as a prescription-only medicine in Australia (Schedule 4).
💊
CA — Prescription only
DHEA is a controlled substance in Canada, available by prescription only.
📊 Effectiveness
Blood sugar regulation
Evidence Grade B · 22 studies · n=3,200
Evidence grades: A=Strong RCT evidence · B=Good clinical trials · C=Limited trials · D=Preliminary/traditional
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
Consult a healthcare professional before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medications, or if you have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.