FDA Warns Against Weight Loss Supplements Containing Toxic Yellow Oleander
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an expanded warning regarding dietary supplements marketed for weight loss that have been found to contain toxic yellow oleander (Thevetia peruviana) instead of the advertised ingredient, tejocote root (Crataegus mexicana). These adulterated supplements pose serious health risks, including neurologic, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular effects, and can even be fatal.
What is the Problem?
FDA analysis has determined that certain products labeled as tejocote root or Brazil seed are adulterated with yellow oleander, a poisonous plant native to Mexico and Central America. Yellow oleander contains toxins that can cause severe adverse health effects. The FDA began investigating in September 2023 following reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 1.
Health Risks Associated with Yellow Oleander
Ingestion of yellow oleander can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Cardiac abnormalities
- Dysrhythmia
- In severe cases, coma and death
If you or someone you know has taken these products and is experiencing serious side effects, the FDA recommends calling 9-1-1 or seeking immediate emergency medical attention 2.
Identified Products and Retailers
As of March 11, 2026, the FDA has identified several products containing yellow oleander. The agency is continuing to identify and test suspect products 2. One recently added product is:
- Selling Firm: Naturista Reyes (Suerte Y Salud LLC, La Tia Mana LLC)
- Brand: Chupa Panza
- Website: ebay.com
- Recall Status: FDA unable to contact selling firm. Ebay removed the listing on March 10, 2026.
Other products identified in previous investigations include those sold by OBC GROUP CORP under the brands SdB Semilla de Brasil Tejocote Root and SdB ELITE 2.
What to Do If You Have These Products
The FDA advises consumers to immediately stop using and dispose of any products labeled as tejocote root or Brazil seed, especially if purchased online. Contact a healthcare provider immediately, even if you haven’t experienced symptoms, to ensure proper evaluation 2.
Tejocote Root: Traditional Employ vs. Current Marketing
Tejocote root, derived from a hawthorn tree native to Mexico and Guatemala, has a history of use in traditional Mexican medicine for respiratory and digestive health. However, it is now frequently marketed as a weight loss supplement with unsubstantiated claims of appetite suppression, fat burning, and detoxification.
Ongoing Investigation
The FDA is actively working with third-party platforms, such as Amazon and eBay, to remove these dangerous products from sale. The agency is also concerned that other products marketed as tejocote, under various names (including Crataegus mexicana, Raiz de Tejocote, and Mexican Hawthorn), may also contain yellow oleander 2.
Key Takeaways
- Weight loss supplements labeled as tejocote root or Brazil seed may contain toxic yellow oleander.
- Yellow oleander can cause severe health problems and even death.
- Stop using these products immediately and contact a healthcare provider.
- The FDA is actively working to remove these products from the market.
The FDA’s investigation highlights the risks associated with purchasing dietary supplements online and the importance of verifying product safety before consumption. Consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events related to these products to the FDA’s MedWatch program.
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