An illegal herbal product is responsible for some Queensland residents being hospitalized for opioid addiction with the substance sold under the counter in supermarkets in Brisbane.
Kamini, commonly known by the street name “Kamini balls”, is an illegal Indian import that contains highly addictive opioids, often unknown to consumers who buy them.
According to researchers, the balls made from poppies are often mistakenly thought of as an aphrodisiac — a food or drug that boosts sexual performance.
Jeremy Hayllar, medical director of the Metro North Mental Health Alcohol and Drug Service, said 12 patients had been treated for opioid use disorder with the product after patients sought help for withdrawal as prices rose after the pandemic.
“The feedback from patients treated at drug services is that they bought the Kamini because they heard it improved energy levels and helped them work longer,” he said.
Camera IconKamini is the name of an illegal product sold under the counter in supermarkets in Queensland. Included/SBS Credit: Included
“There is a misconception that it is an aphrodisiac; in reality, it probably has the opposite effect.
“It seems that people are unaware of the addiction dangers of Kamini and were shocked by their withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, diarrhea, runny nose, and poor sleep.”
He said some patients struggled for months to control their use before seeking professional help, raising concerns that the problem is more widespread than it seems.
Kamini is packaged in small glass bottles containing vegetable products disguised as 40 brownish balls.
During the pandemic, illegal traders sold bottles for $130. Still, a delivery problem has pushed the cost to $180, making it less accessible to residents who could buy up to four bottles each week and are already addicted.
Camera IconKamini is sold in the form of small gray-brown spheres. Included/SBS Credit: Included
In extreme cases, some users took as many as 30 pellets daily, equivalent to 60 mg of OxyContin. This drug was intended to be used for severe pain but is infamous for the opioid crisis in America.
“Once that brain receptor gets its daily nourishment, if you will if you try to take that away, the brain protests loudly,” said Dr. Haylar.
“It’s something that people get stuck in, and it’s very hard for them to escape,”
According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), importation into Australia is prohibited.
“These tablets pose a serious risk to your health and should not be taken,” the regulator said.
In a study published Friday, Queensland health experts documented their findings on Kamini addiction.
“I speak out as a warning of the dangers of Kamini and encourage people to seek treatment,” said Dr. halyard.
Camera iconOpium Poppies are an important ingredient in illegal products. Delivered. Credit: News Corp Australia
“We would like a reduction in the sale of illegal under-the-counter products in Queensland.”
“We know cheap cigarettes and vaping products are also readily available.”
