Pharmaceutical Regulator Prohibits Sale and Use of Vaginal Detox Product

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) in Kenya has issued a ban on the sale, use, and distribution of vaginal detox products commonly known as Yoni pearls. Also referred to as herbal tampons, cleansing pearls, or vaginal pearls, these products have not been registered or licensed for use in the country.

In a statement released on Monday, PPB CEO Fred Siyoi emphasized that Yoni pearls do not comply with the pharmacy and poisons Act Cap 244, which requires registration and authorization for use in Kenya. The lack of proper registration raises concerns about the quality, safety, and efficacy of these products, potentially posing health risks to users.

Given the absence of regulation and oversight, the PPB strongly advises against the distribution, supply, sale, or use of Yoni pearls and any other unregistered products making similar claims.

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board serves as the Drug Regulatory Authority under the Pharmacy and Poisons Act, Chapter 244 of the Laws of Kenya. Its primary mission is to regulate the practice of pharmacy and the trade of drugs and poisons, with a focus on ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and quality for all drugs and medical devices in the country.

To safeguard public health, the PPB encourages the public and healthcare providers to report any suspicious health products and technologies to the board through its official website or the USSD code *271#. By doing so, the PPB can take appropriate measures to protect consumers and uphold the safety standards required for all drugs and medical substances in Kenya.