- In January 2025, the U.S. FDA issued a public warning after discovering that several Tejocote root supplements were adulterated with toxic yellow oleander, a poisonous plant known to cause severe neurological, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular effects. Marketed as Crataegus mexicana, these mislabeled products pose serious health risks, including potential fatalities. The alert underscores growing concerns over product mislabeling and adulteration in the botanical supplement industry, prompting the FDA to pursue regulatory actions and encourage voluntary recalls. Consumers are urged to stop using these products immediately and consult healthcare providers if exposed
- In October 2024, Evonik Industries AG, a German specialty chemicals leader, acquired Botanica, a Swiss company renowned for its sustainable botanical extracts used in personal care products. With operations in Switzerland, France, and Germany, Botanica brings deep expertise in plant-based actives, aligning with Evonik’s strategy to become a sustainable specialties partner. The acquisition enhances Evonik’s Care Solutions business line, enabling the development of customizable, eco-friendly ingredients and expanding its footprint in the natural ingredients market. Botanica’s integration supports Evonik’s goal of increasing system solutions and reinforces its leadership in botanical innovation across Europe
- In July 2024, the U.S. FDA issued a public health alert warning consumers not to use OPMS Black Liquid Kratom, a product sold online and in some retail stores under the label Optimized Plant Mediated Solutions. The alert followed reports of serious adverse health effects, including one death, linked to the product. The FDA cited concerns over the presence of kratom alkaloids—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—which act on the same brain receptors as opioids. Reported side effects include addiction, withdrawal symptoms, digestive issues, and aggressive behavior. This warning highlights the urgent need for consumer caution and regulatory oversight in the botanical supplement market
- In July 2024, Nuherbs Co., a U.S.-based manufacturer and distributor of Chinese herbal supplements, launched a wholesale B2B e-commerce platform powered by Spree Commerce. Designed with a mobile-first user experience, the platform streamlines order processing, inventory management, and accounting, offering 24/7 access to over 300 botanical products. It caters to both repeat buyers—with features such as bulk ordering and personalized views—and first-time customers, who benefit from educational content and intuitive navigation. Integrated with Kingdee ERP, the system enhances operational efficiency and supports Nuherbs’ mission to deliver traceable, high-quality herbal ingredients to businesses worldwide
- In May 2024, an Ireland-based nutrition and supplement company introduced a botanical blend specifically formulated to help manage multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. This innovative product features boswellic acid and curcuminoids, two plant-derived compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Boswellic acid, extracted from frankincense, has shown promise in reducing inflammation, while curcuminoids—active components of turmeric—are recognized for supporting cognitive function and immune modulation. This launch reflects a growing trend in the nutraceutical industry toward condition-specific, plant-based therapies, offering natural alternatives to support individuals living with chronic neurological conditions such as MS
