The occurrence of bromide in herbal drugs: is there a need for a Ph. Eur. limit?

This contribution provides an overview on the current legal requirements regarding limits for bromide and presents data on the actual bromide burden of commonly used herbal drugs. Evaluation of an extensive data base shows that results exceeding the limit of 50 mg/kg are found in specific plants which take up bromide to a high extent from the environment. Thus, positive findings of bromide in herbal drugs do not necessarily serve as a proof for methyl bromide treatment. Taking into account the ADI recommended by EMA and WHO, there are no toxicological concerns with regard to the intake of herbal teas, extracts or comminuted herbal drugs at therapeutic doses. Furthermore, the use of methyl bromide and other fumigants must be documented within the batch documentation. If stated in the batch documentation that no fumigation was carried out, it is not necessary to perform the test on bromide. In cases of a particular suspect and if toxicological concerns exist, additional testing can be performed in accordance with the limits set by Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005. For the above reasons, information obtained by performing the test on bromide is not significant for the assessment of quality. Therefore, it seems no longer necessary to maintain bromide in Ph. Eur. general chapter 2.8.13. Pesticide residues and it is recommended to delete it from Table 2.8.13.-1.