We would like to inform you that, based on the latest international scientific research, the root of the Pelargonium sidoides D.C. plant (commonly known as African geranium), which is included in the composition of certain products previously submitted to the Analytical Expertise Center of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan (hereinafter referred to as the “Center”) for obtaining the relevant “Expert Opinion,” has been found to have positive therapeutic effects on the immune system, respiratory tract inflammation, and viral infections. Relevant monographs from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) also confirm these findings:
See: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/herbal/pelargonii-radix
At the same time, we would like to note that, due to the presence of coumarins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids among its phenolic compounds, this raw material has been classified as a “novel food” since May 15, 1997. However, according to a relevant document from the European Commission, the status of this raw material as a “novel food” has undergone changes:
See: https://food.ec.europa.eu/food-safety/novel-food/consultation-process-novel-food-status_en
For this reason, the use of this raw material in modern pediatrics is not recommended:
Additionally, we would like to bring to your attention that the Pelargonium sidoides D.C. plant is included in the list of botanicals used in food and food supplements that present a high risk of carcinogenicity:
Given the above, we hereby inform all entities involved in the production and import of food supplements that products containing Pelargonium sidoides D.C. root are now classified as medicinal products. Consequently, if such products are submitted to the Center for expert review as food supplements, their acceptance will be unequivocally declined.
