There have been reports recently of people being tested for metal poisoning from the use of some Ayurvedic drugs. The reports however did not state where these people got the problem drugs. Ayurveda in India does use some metals in some of its compound drugs but before these drugs are exported they should first be tested and certified as being safe. Practitioners in New Zealand also need to make sure that the drugs are indeed certified as safe and can be used in NZ. If a practioner is not sure they can have them tested in NZ also.
However you can purchase Ayurvedic drugs over the counter in New Zealand at various places. There is no telling if these drugs have been tested. In general if anyone is after Ayurvedic drugs they should be purchased from a reputable Ayurvedic Practioner who is registered and recognised as such in New Zealand.
If you are seeing an Ayurvedic consultant, and they are prescribing herbs for you then you should be fine but it never hurts to check.
