Health Authorities Warn Against Tsunami Ointment, Vow to Arrest Sellers
A major health alert has been issued over the popular green ointment known as "Tsunami." The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has declared the product unregistered and potentially unsafe, vowing to seize it and arrest anyone caught selling it.
An Unregistered and Potentially Unsafe Product
The pungent green ointment is smuggled into Zimbabwe and is widely available from street vendors and even some retailers. Its producers claim it can treat a staggering eighteen different illnesses, ranging from abdominal pain and toothaches to headaches and muscle soreness.
The official stance from the medicines regulator is unequivocal. Davison Kaiyo, Public Relations Officer for the MCAZ, stated that the product has not undergone the mandatory approval process and its contents are unknown.
"The quality and safety of Tsunami is not guaranteed, as it lacks verified scientific data... The selling or advertising of Tsunami without it being approved constitutes a violation of the law."
This was echoed by government official Nick Mangwana on X, who posted: “The labels don’t indicate what’s in there. It may be toxic, who knows.”
Crackdown on Retailers
This new warning follows concrete enforcement action from earlier in the year. On 29 July 2025, leading retail chain Bhola Hardware City was fined US$300 at the Harare Magistrates’ Court for selling unapproved complementary medicines, including Tsunami.
The conviction resulted from a sting operation by CID Drugs and Narcotics detectives. Officers raided the Bhola Mega Market and recovered several bottles of Tsunami and tins of Essential Balm, leading to the immediate arrest of a company representative.
Mixed Public Reaction
The announcement has sparked a divided reaction online, with many users expressing strong support for the product based on years of personal experience.
"Tsunami works baba."
"Tsunami inorapa hayo makuru wani" (Tsunami treats, it’s great indeed.)
Other users highlighted a perceived contradiction in the government's focus, questioning the crackdown on a popular remedy when conventional medicines are reportedly scarce in hospitals.
"Kana tichit hatina mushonga muzvipatara imi muchitenga mota moti totadza kushandisa tsunami" (When we go to hospitals there is no medicine, you are busy buying cars and then we are forbidden from using Tsunami.)
"Haaaa murimadusvura evanhu Tsunami yatowa nemore than 12yrs tichiishandisa nhasi ndopamakuti haisi registered" (We’ve used Tsunami for over 12 years, now you say it’s not registered?)
Tsunami Ointment: Common Questions & Answers
Common questions about Tsunami Ointment focus on its safety, effectiveness, regulation, and proper use — especially across Southern Africa where it remains widely sold.
No. Regulatory bodies like the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) have not approved Tsunami Ointment. It has not undergone official clinical testing to prove its safety, efficacy, or quality.
Because it is unapproved, its safety is not guaranteed by health authorities. While most users report no severe side effects, health experts warn that unregistered products can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation, especially in people sensitive to menthol or herbal ingredients.
The MCAZ cautions that unregulated products like Tsunami Ointment may worsen certain conditions or trigger unexpected reactions. Users are advised to stop using it if irritation or discomfort occurs.
Despite official warnings, some shops continue to sell Tsunami Ointment due to limited awareness or stock acquired before the crackdown. Authorities have since intensified enforcement, with some sellers prosecuted for distributing unregistered complementary medicines.
Tsunami Ointment is marketed as a herbal balm for headaches, flu, colds, dizziness, muscle aches, and insect bites. However, there is no scientific or clinical data proving these claims. Any perceived benefits are based on personal experiences, not verified medical evidence.
Apply a small amount topically to the affected area and gently massage. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or open wounds. Mild irritation, burning, or redness can occur in those sensitive to menthol or herbal ingredients.
Only licensed pharmacies and hospitals are permitted to sell approved medicines. Selling Tsunami Ointment without regulatory clearance is illegal in Zimbabwe. The MCAZ has confirmed that offenders may face fines or prosecution under existing medical product laws.
David (Sales)