‘Ayurveda’, hyperemesis and anaemia in pregnancy

Nausea, vomiting and anaemia are common complications of pregnancy. A case of hyperemesis and unexplained anaemia in a woman of South Asian ethnicity is presented. Further investigation revealed hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis insufficiency and lead toxicity, most likely secondary to an Ayurvedic powder she had recently ceased. The importance of considering adulteration of complementary and alternative preparations as a cause of pregnancy complications is discussed.