08/11/98 - 1993 (see also VNN story #1986)

Warning About "Vibhuti"

Germany (VNN) - by Ravindra Svarupa dasa, for the GBC Executive Committee

We have received reports that a number of devotees in ISKCON may currently be under treatment by Chitesvara, a tantric healer from Orissa, with a powder called "vibhuti," supposedly the ash from a fire sacrifice. However, laboratory analysis has recently shown that the "vibhuti" given one patient (Harikesa Swami) contained powerful prescription psycho-pharmaceuticals. They were the anti-psychotic drug trifluoperazine (brand named Stelazine) and the anti-parkinsonian drug trihexyphenidyl (Artane).

Anyone currently taking "vibhuti" from Chitesvara is advised that it may contain these or other potent pharmaceuticals. At the same time, it may be quite dangerous to suddenly discontinue taking the powder. We advise such people to immediately consult a qualified physician, explain the situation, and withdraw from the powder under medical supervison.

Chitesvara denies putting any pharmaceuticals in the "vibhuti."

Any one with further questions regarding the "vibhuti" may consult Madhava Puri dasa. He can be reached by telephone at +46 (415) 222 45, by fax at +46 (415) 220 65, or by e-mail at madhava.puri@com.bbt.se, or madhava.puri@bbti.org

Editor's note:
Info about Trifluoperazine, Trihexyphenidyl