Gwyneth Paltrow, hollywood actress and the founder of the controversial Goop company will pay $145,000 in civil penalties to settle allegations that it made unscientific claims about the health benefits of three of its products.
According to Goop’s claims, inserting these egg-shaped stones into one’s vagina for a period of time would help balance hormones, regulate menstrual cycles, prevent uterine prolapse, and increase bladder control.
Also named in the suit was the $22 Inner Judge Flower Essence Blend, essential oils purported to help depression when taken orally or added to bathwater.
The lawsuit against Goop was brought upon by Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen and nine other state prosecutors, who stated its medical claims were “not supported by competent and reliable science,” the Orange County District Attorney’s office said in a statement.
“The health and money of Santa Clara County residents should never be put at risk by misleading advertising,” Rosen said in a statement. “We will vigilantly protect consumers against companies that promise health benefits without the support of good science…or any science.”
As well as civil penalties, Goop agreed to refunds to consumers who purchased those products between Jan. 12, 2017 and Aug. 31, 2017.
In a statement to Bloomberg, Goop said it didn’t agree with the view of prosecutors, but wanted to settle the case quickly.
“The law, though, sometimes views statement like this as advertising claims, which are subject to various legal requirements.”
In July, Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow said it would be hiring a fact-checker, in what would be a “necessary growing pain” for the company.
Cosequently, Goop has been barred from making any claims about the efficacy of its products unless it can back them up with solid scientific evidence, and may not manufacture or sell any falsely-advertised or misbranded medical devices for the next five years.
“It’s important to hold companies accountable for unsubstantiated claims, especially when the claims have the potential to affect women’s health,” said Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas.