On 11/3, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its list, identifying 28 highly toxic products. Analysis revealed manufacturers adulterated ingredients, substituting yellow oleander (Thevetia peruviana) for tejocote root or Brazil nuts as stated on product labels. Unlike tejocote root or Brazil nuts, which offer vitamin C, antioxidants, and weight loss support, yellow oleander is a highly toxic plant native to Mexico and Central America.

Health authorities warn that yellow oleander's toxicity can devastate the body, causing severe neurological, digestive, and cardiovascular complications. Victims often experience abdominal pain, delirium, vomiting, diarrhea, and, most dangerously, sudden cardiac arrest.

Currently, many blacklisted supplements remain available on major e-commerce platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. While some companies have voluntarily recalled their products, many distributors continue to ignore the warning. In response, the FDA is working diligently with third-party marketplaces to remove dangerous items and expand testing on suspicious products.

The FDA officially launched a large-scale investigation in 9/2023, following the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) uncovering the true ingredients in supplements labeled as tejocote root. Health experts urgently advise anyone who has consumed these products to contact a doctor for a health assessment. If unusual reactions occur, individuals should call emergency services or a poison control center immediately, and personally dispose of any remaining medication.

Two supplements labeled as tejocote root or Brazil nuts were identified by the FDA as containing highly toxic yellow oleander. *Photo: FDA*

By Binh Minh (Source: FDA, NY Post, WBZ NewsRadio 1030)