Regulatory Complexity
Alcoholic tinctures marketed as homoeopathic remedies are governed by a complex regulatory framework involving both state and union laws.
States control public health and alcohol taxation, but the Union governs medicinal alcohol through the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
The introduction of GST has complicated the taxation of medicinal alcohol, with rates set by the Union, but states still face challenges in regulating these products.
Health Concerns and Public Safety
Alcoholic tinctures, containing up to 12% alcohol, pose serious public health risks, especially in states like Gujarat and Bihar, where alcohol is banned.
People unknowingly consume these tinctures, leading to health issues like alcoholic hepatitis, and some may even substitute them for alcoholic beverages.
Despite awareness of these risks, the Union government has been slow to act, while the homoeopathy industry has vigorously opposed regulations.
Industry Pushback and Legal Battles
The homoeopathic industry has engaged in extensive legal challenges to regulations like Rule 106B of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, which limits the alcohol content in tinctures.
These legal battles, including challenges over constitutional validity and procedural issues, have delayed any meaningful action or enforcement, prolonging the public health threat.
The Union government’s reluctance to address the issue effectively has resulted in ongoing legal delays, allowing the problem to persist.
Broader Questions on Alcohol Use in Medicine
There is an ongoing debate about whether alcohol should be used in homoeopathic and ayurvedic products at all, especially when other countries are introducing stricter alcohol warnings.
The issue raises concerns about the potential harm caused by such products, particularly when sold under the guise of providing health benefits, without sufficient consumer awareness.
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