Kratom and Kava Tonic Sparks Health Fears as Users Report Addiction Symptoms
Users of Botanic Tonics’ Feel Free tonic are reporting severe addiction symptoms and health concerns, with some spending up to $3,000 monthly on the product. The tonic, which is a plant-based supplement containing kratom and kava, has raised alarms due to its potential for causing serious health effects. The concerns have prompted health officials to issue warnings about the risks associated with these ingredients, especially when they are consumed without proper regulation.
The tonic, also available in capsule form, is sold at many gas stations and retailers across the U.S. Some users have shared their experiences, including severe side effects such as seizures, hospitalizations, and intense withdrawal symptoms. The combination of kratom, which acts on mu-oxygen receptors and can lead to dependency, and kava, which is linked to liver issues, is considered particularly risky. Health officials have warned of the dangers posed by these ingredients, emphasizing the risks of unregulated use of such products.
Botanic Tonics, the Oklahoma-based company that produces Feel Free, claims that the product is safe and natural, emphasizing its traditional usage. However, users and medical experts urge caution due to the product’s potential for misuse and long-term health consequences. The company asserts that the product contains natural kratom leaf and is distinct from concentrated 7-OH, a kratom synthetic that the FDA recently announced plans to ban. They also emphasize the importance of responsible consumption and advise those with a history of substance use to consult with healthcare professionals before using the product.
Expert opinion highlights the risks of consuming both kratom and kava together, as their combined effects can lead to overstimulation and increase the risk of addiction. The warnings stress the need for informed use and caution, particularly for individuals with existing health conditions or a history of substance use. Botanic Tonics’ commitment to consumer education and transparency is noted, yet the severity of the reports from users underscores the concern surrounding this product.
The situation highlights the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with herbal supplements, especially those containing kratom and kava. While the company maintains that their product is safe and natural, the reported health consequences and addiction symptoms raise significant concerns. Users and healthcare professionals are urging caution and the need for further research into the long-term effects of such products. The ongoing discussions about Feel Free underscore the growing concern over the use of unregulated botanical supplements and their potential impact on public health.