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Dietary supplements based on Harpagophytum: risks and regulations

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Harpagophytum: dietary supplement or medicine?

Indication and active substance

📌 Indication: joints
📌 Active substance: Harpagophytum root extract

Regulatory regime

Harpagophytum is primarily marketed as a dietary supplement. However, certain formulations and communications can lead to its reclassification as a medicine.

Risk of reclassification as a medicine

A product containing Harpagophytum extract and bearing the claim “contributes to maintaining good joint mobility” is acceptable as a food supplement.

⚠️ But be careful !
If the packaging includes a pictogram depicting joint pain or a human body with inflamed areas, the product risks being reclassified as a medicinal product by presentation.

Why?

✔️ Visuals and pictograms that suggest a therapeutic effect may be considered indicators of a medicinal positioning.
✔️ The claim “anti-inflammatory” is strictly reserved for medicines.

How to avoid reclassification ?

✔️ Remove pictograms that may suggest a medical use.
✔️ Ensure claims comply with European regulations governing the communication of food supplements.

Conclusion

Harpagophytum is a popular ingredient in food supplements, but communication must be carefully crafted to avoid reclassification as a medicinal product.

Frequently asked questions about dietary supplements based on Harpagophytum

Can I mention the anti-inflammatory benefits of Harpagophytum?

No. Anti-inflammatory claims are strictly reserved for medicines and require specific authorization.

Can a pictogram on the packaging cause problems ?

Yes. If the visual suggests a therapeutic effect, it can lead to reclassification as a medicine.