IPB University Faculty of Medicine Lecturer Warns of the Dangers of BKO in Herbal Medicine: Irritation to Death

The Indonesian Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has discovered the presence of dangerous pharmaceutical chemicals (BKO) mixed into several herbal medicine products. Based on these findings, some types of herbal medicine commonly contaminated with BKO include muscle pain relief herbal medicine, weight loss herbal medicine, and male stamina-enhancing herbal medicine.

Addressing this issue, dr Trisni Untari Dewi, SpFK, a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine (FK) at IPB University, explained that BKO added to traditional medicines can cause side effects ranging from mild to severe, such as gastrointestinal irritation, liver and kidney damage, vision problems, or heart rhythm disorders.

“In cases of mild side effects, the damage may be temporary (reversible). However, severe side effects can cause permanent organ damage or even death,” dr Trisni clarified.

BKO itself refers to synthetic compounds or chemical products derived from natural sources and are commonly used in modern medicine. The presence of BKO in traditional medicines can be identified through laboratory testing.

She further explained that the use of BKO in modern medicine is always accompanied by dosage, clear usage instructions, and warnings about the dangers of its use to ensure consumer safety.

“On the other hand, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, BKO is prohibited from being used in traditional medicine (jamu),” said dr Trisni.

Traditional medicine or jamu is a substance or mixture derived from plants, animals, minerals, and galenic preparations. These products have been traditionally used by communities based on experience.

“However, the development of the traditional medicine industry today has also raised new issues. Many traditional medicine industries still mix BKO into their products,” she said.

She urged the public who wish to consume jamu to always check the registration number, usage instructions, and warnings listed on the product label. “Avoid products listed in the public warning list issued by the BPOM,” she advised.

Dr Trisni also suggested that the public should be suspicious of the presence of BKO if the use of traditional medicine causes effects that are felt very quickly. This is because such effects are rare in pure natural medicines. (AS) (IAAS/RMH)