Concerns Grow Over Addictive Herbal Supplement Sold at Gas Stations

Concerns Grow Over Addictive Herbal Supplement Sold at Gas Stations

An herbal supplement marketed as a feel-good tonic is raising alarm bells regarding its potentially harmful health effects. Users of the product, known as Feel Free, claim they have experienced addiction-like symptoms after using it.

Manufactured by Botanic Tonics, a company based in Oklahoma, Feel Free is a plant-based product available in both tonic and capsule forms. Its widespread availability at gas stations and retail outlets across the United States has made it increasingly popular.

Ingredients and Claims

The tonic’s main ingredients include kava extract, marketed as a mood lifter and relaxation aid, and kratom leaf, which proponents claim enhances energy and focus. However, the combination of these substances is leading to serious concerns.

Users have taken to social media platforms like Reddit to express their apprehension about Feel Free’s addictive properties, sharing troubling stories that include severe withdrawal symptoms, skin infections, and even seizures.

Personal Accounts of Addiction

Chris Oflyng, a 28-year-old resident of Madison, Wisconsin, recounted his experience with the tonic. Gaining initial relief from his Adderall prescription, Oflyng turned to kratom, believing it to be a healthier alternative. He described it as a mix of substances that would provide enhanced feelings of well-being.

“The first time anyone tries it, they’re going to have a great time,” Oflyng stated. However, he warned that many might not feel side effects until they have been using the product for an extended period. Despite acknowledging some benefits, he emphasized that the risks begin to materialize when kratom is used in conjunction with kava.

His addiction to Feel Free escalated to the point where he was consuming five to ten doses per day, experiencing nausea, heightened heart rate, and excessive sweating as a result.

Withdrawal Symptoms and Effects

Every attempt Oflyng made to quit resulted in debilitating withdrawal symptoms. He explained that while withdrawal from traditional opioids tends to be physically harsh, his experience felt more akin to an antidepressant withdrawal, filled with relentless cravings.

Other users have also reported alarming side effects, including skin issues. Oflyng’s skin condition deteriorated to the point where he likened it to reptilian skin, a painful reminder of his struggles with the supplement.

In his addiction support group, Oflyng learned of another member who suffered a seizure after consuming the tonic. His own heart health became a major concern as he experienced tachycardia and skipped heartbeats.

Experiences from Other Users

Another user, Jasmine Adeoye, began using Feel Free in 2022 when she decided to quit drinking alcohol. Initially, she found the tonic beneficial for managing her social anxiety. However, she quickly found herself trapped in a cycle of dependence, escalating her consumption from one daily dose to as many as 12.

Adeoye disclosed that her use of Feel Free led to intense anxiety, depression, and even physical ailments. Describing her skin as “alligator-like,” she noted that the kava in the product significantly dried out her skin.

Ultimately, Adeoye decided to stop using the product cold turkey in March 2024, enduring four days of painful withdrawal symptoms. It took nearly six months before she felt fully recovered from her dependency on the supplement.

Expert Opinions on Risks

The dangers of combining kratom and kava have drawn the attention of health professionals. Dr. Lauri Wright, an expert in nutrition and associate professor at the University of South Florida, shared her insights on the matter.

Kratom acts on mu-opioid receptors, similar to traditional opioids, leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms that mimic those from morphine or heroin. Wright cautioned that heavy use could result in serious side effects, including nausea, seizures, and liver damage.

Moreover, she explained that the stimulant effects of kratom combined with the depressant qualities of kava create a risk-laden blend. This concoction increases the likelihood of misuse and physical dependency. Reports of users consuming several bottles a day at a staggering cost of up to $3,000 per month highlight the severity of the situation.

Consumer Awareness and Safety

Botanic Tonics, the producer of Feel Free, reassured consumers of their commitment to transparency. The company claims that they prioritize customer safety and education. They emphasized that the kratom in their product is natural and distinct from synthetic alternatives.

Nevertheless, healthcare advocates advise consumers against using unregulated products like Feel Free, especially those with underlying health conditions or a history of substance abuse. They recommend that anyone considering such products speak with their healthcare provider.

The ongoing dialogue about Feel Free highlights the critical importance of consumer education in response to the rising popularity of herbal supplements. Individuals should exercise caution, conduct thorough research, and remain vigilant about any products that promise safety while posing potential risks.

Navigating Consumer Choices

As more people turn to herbal alternatives for relief and relaxation, it is essential to remain informed. Adeoye, now free from her dependence, urges others to scrutinize products marketed as safe alternatives to alcohol or recreational substances. Staying aware of the potential risks linked to seemingly innocuous supplements can help individuals make better choices for their health.

The narratives of Oflyng and Adeoye reflect the urgency for further investigation into the safety and efficacy of these herbal products. Awareness and responsible consumption are crucial in mitigating future health crises linked to herbal supplement use.