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Anticholinergic poisoning associated with herbal tea
1Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Beth Israel Hospital Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
Archives of Internal Medicine
|November 13, 1995
Summary
Seven individuals experienced anticholinergic poisoning after drinking contaminated "Paraguay Tea." The tea, mislabeled and containing belladonna alkaloids, led to a public health investigation and product quarantine.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Public Health
- Food Safety
Background:
- Cholinergic poisoning outbreaks pose significant public health risks.
- Contaminated food and beverages are common sources of toxic exposure.
- South American communities may consume traditional beverages like Paraguay tea.
Observation:
- An outbreak of poisoning occurred in New York City affecting seven individuals from three families.
- Patients presented with symptoms including dry skin, hyperthermia, tachycardia, dilated pupils, agitation, and hallucinations.
- Illness onset was linked to consuming a tea labeled "Paraguay Tea" from a specialty grocery store.
Findings:
- Gas chromatography analysis of the tea revealed the presence of belladonna alkaloids.
- The tea samples lacked caffeine and theophylline, contrary to typical "Paraguay Tea" composition.
- The contaminated tea was traced to a single import lot, distributor, and retail location.
Implications:
- This incident highlights the potential for adulteration of traditional beverages.
- Prompt public health intervention, including product quarantine, can prevent further cases.
- Ensuring accurate product labeling and supply chain integrity is crucial for food safety.