An unauthorized natural health product is under recall because it contains mercury and lead levels that are much higher than allowed, Health Canada says.

The product, Zhuifeng Tougu Wan, is marketed for traditional Chinese use.

Zhuifeng Tougu Wan contained excessive amounts of heavy metals, Health Canada says. (Health Canada)

Health Canada said tests showed mercury levels far beyond its allowable limit.

It also contained lead more than four times higher than allowable limit and arsenic at nearly twice the allowable limit, the department said.

It was sold at four locations in B.C.:

• Guang Zhou Herbs Plus in Chilliwack.
• De Xing Long in Vancouver.
• Nam Pek Enterprises Ltd. in Vancouver and Richmond, B.C

It was also distributed at Sun Ming Hong in Toronto.

Toxic levels of lead can cause abdominal pain, anemia, changes in blood pressure, reproductive effects, weakness, concentration problems, weight loss, insomnia, dizziness, kidney and brain damage, and ultimately death.

The toxic effects of arsenic include skin and lung cancers, heart and lung diseases, and brain damage.

Health Canada said it is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall by Wing Quon Enterprises.