THE Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), in conjunction with Queensland Police Services and the Australian Taxation Office, executed a search warrant at business premises on the Gold Coast, Queensland on 09 May.
The raid netted 27 jars of suspected Bloodroot Salve (commonly known as Black Salve), 84 bottles of product suspected to be Triple Strength Bloodroot Capsules and 30 bottles of suspected Double Strength Bloodroot Capsules.
The investigation related to alleged importation, advertising and unauthorised supply of unapproved therapeutic goods, including scheduled medicines.
A number of items and devices were also uncovered and seized, allegedly relating to manufacturing of therapeutic goods, the TGA said.
Enquiries are still underway and further action will be dependent upon the outcome of investigations.
Bloodroot Salve is presented as a topical paste.
It is commonly classified as an 'escharotic', as it is corrosive and can destroy skin tissue, causing disfigurement.
Application can result in dead skin tissue and a thick dark scar.
The TGA warns that Bloodroot capsules may contain several of the same ingredients as Black Salve.
The regulatory body also said these types of salves have not been tested or approved in Australia and strongly advises consumers against purchasing or using Black Salve, saying consumers should check the safety alert on black and red salves by visiting tga.gov.au.
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