Herbal supplements referred to as “comfortable tonics” are raising eyebrows due to possible health risks. Some users describe it as a plant-based product developed by a company in Oklahoma.
These tonics, also available in capsule form, can be found at various gas stations and retail outlets throughout the U.S. Their ingredients include Kava Extract, purported to promote relaxation and enhance mood.
However, users on Reddit have expressed concerns about the addictive nature of these products, sharing unsettling experiences that range from skin infections and seizures to suicidal tendencies and severe withdrawal issues.
Potential Health Risks Linked to Kratom
Chris Oflyng, a 28-year-old from Madison, Wisconsin, opened up about his doubts regarding the health benefits of these tonics. He initially turned to Kratom as a substitute for his Adderall prescription.
“I found this plant that’s legal; it felt like a middle ground,” Oflyng told Fox News Digital. “I felt good physically. Others have said they found Kratom to be their last refuge in battling addiction.”
He recalled, “The first time someone tries it, they’ll have a great experience. Unless you’re particularly sensitive, you probably won’t notice any side effects for a while.” Oflyng noted that while Kratom isn’t entirely harmful, it can assist those struggling with chronic pain. However, he warned about the risks of unregulated products, especially those mixed with other substances. “The psychological dependency linked to the opioid aspect can be overwhelming,” he added.
Health Officials Raise Alarms
Oflyng shared that he grappled with his dependence, claiming he took 5-10 doses daily, which led to symptoms like nausea, severe sweating, and an increased heart rate. “It was a significant challenge for me,” he remarked.
He noticed skin issues too, suspecting that they were connected to both Kratom and Kava. “My skin often resembles that of a reptile,” he described, explaining how his liver became sensitive due to the mixtures. As a result, he dealt with peeling skin on his face and a noticeable change in his appearance.
Whenever he tried to stop using the tonics, withdrawal symptoms would hit him hard. “It’s not like traditional opioid withdrawal,” he noted, comparing it instead to antidepressant withdrawal, which tends to be riddled with intense cravings. He recounted that someone in one of his support groups even had a seizure after consuming the product.
Encounters with Dependency
Jasmine Adeoye, a 30-year-old who started using the product in 2022 to cope with social anxiety after quitting alcohol, expressed regret now. “I thought it would help, but I never expected to become dependent,” she said. Adeoye reported that her consumption escalated from once daily to as many as 12 doses in a single day.
“I was often deeply depressed, exhausted, and anxious,” she admitted. On one occasion, she struggled to get out of bed. Similar to Oflyng, she experienced nausea and dry skin as side effects.
In March 2024, Adeoye decided to quit cold turkey. She described her withdrawal as “disastrous,” but after about four days, the symptoms began to ease. It took her six months to feel like herself again and to completely eradicate her dependence on the tonic.
Health Experts Weigh In
Experts, like Dr. Lauri Wright from the University of South Florida, caution about the health implications of mixing Kratom and Kava. “Kratom interacts with Mu-Opioid receptors similar to opioids. Regular use can result in dependence and unpleasant withdrawal effects,” she stated.
Reported side effects of Kratom span a range of issues, including nausea and liver damage, among others. Dr. Wright remarked that there have been numerous reports linking Kratom to adverse health incidents and even a few fatalities, particularly when used in conjunction with other substances.
Overall, she advises consumers to be cautious, particularly those with histories of substance misuse or liver complications. The risks associated with mixing these tonics can escalate, leading to dependency and a host of other health issues.
In response, the Oklahoma company behind the tonics asserts its commitment to consumer education and safety. They emphasize that their products are meant for responsible use by individuals over the age of 21 and encourage potential users to consult healthcare professionals before trying these supplements.
