U.S. health authorities have released a critical warning regarding numerous health supplements circulating on major online platforms that contain life-threatening ingredients. These products were found to have a severe discrepancy between their actual chemical makeup and the labeling on their packaging.
Discovery of lethal substances replacing natural herbs
According to laboratory analysis by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 28 product lines marketed as containing tejocote root or Brazil seeds actually contain Yellow Oleander (Thevetia peruviana). This is a highly toxic plant, vastly different from the benign herbal ingredients typically used for weight loss and vitamin supplementation.
The accidental or intentional substitution with Yellow Oleander can lead to catastrophic health consequences, including:
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Cardiovascular system: Causing heart rhythm disturbances or sudden cardiac arrest.
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Digestive system: Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and prolonged diarrhea.
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Nervous system: Inducing delirium and altered consciousness.
Response from E-commerce platforms
Despite the widespread publication of the warning list, many “blacklisted” items are still detectable on cross-border trading sites such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. The FDA is currently collaborating with e-commerce operators to permanently remove violating storefronts while expanding the scope of testing for suspicious brands.
This large-scale investigation stems from reports by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in late 2023, which exposed cases of fraudulent herbal ingredient labeling.
Recommendations for consumers
Health agencies urge users to immediately cease consumption and destroy any suspect supplements. Individuals who have previously used these products are advised to visit medical facilities for cardiovascular and digestive evaluations, even if abnormal symptoms have not yet manifested.