Baku: Azerbaijan’s Justice Ministry has issued an advisory warning citizens about the potential legal risks associated with carrying the Peganum harmala plant across international borders. The move comes as incidents of detentions involving individuals attempting to transport the plant, also known as Syrian rue, have been on the rise according to international law enforcement agencies.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Forensic Expertise Center of the Ministry of Justice released a statement highlighting that although Peganum harmala is commonly used in traditional medicine and cultural practices, certain alkaloids it contains, such as harmaline and harmine, are classified as restricted or banned substances in several countries. This classification can lead to administrative or criminal charges for travelers found in possession of the plant or its derivatives.
The advisory specifically warns citizens traveling abroad or returning to Azerbaijan not to carry the Peganum harmala plant, including its seeds, extracts, or any related forms. The Justice Ministry emphasized the importance of this advisory to prevent legal complications that could arise under the laws of other countries.
The Forensic Expertise Center has also prepared a detailed advisory on the plant’s origin, chemical composition, and the legal implications associated with it. The goal is to ensure citizen safety and increase public awareness to avert potential legal issues when traveling internationally with the plant.