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Comment: Formatting and stylistic quirks lead me to believe this article is LLM-generated (the references check out, though). Please rewrite in your own words; an additional reference or two would also be helpful. WeirdNAnnoyed (talk) 13:26, 24 August 2025 (UTC)
Feel Free is a herbal tonic manufactured by Botanic Tonics, LLC, a United States–based company. Marketed as a "plant-based alternative to alcohol," the drink contains kava and kratom as its primary active ingredients. Since its introduction in 2020, Feel Free has been the subject of widespread media attention due to health concerns, consumer lawsuits, and debates about regulation.[1][2][3]
History
editBotanic Tonics was founded in 2019 by JW Ross in Texas. The company introduced Feel Free in 2020, initially positioning it as a "wellness" product intended for social drinking and energy. The tonic gained popularity through social media platforms such as TikTok, where it was promoted as an alternative to alcohol and energy drinks.[1]
Ingredients
editFeel Free contains two main active ingredients:
- Kava root (Piper methysticum) — traditionally used in Pacific Island cultures for its calming effects; associated with liver toxicity in some studies.
- Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) — a herb native to Southeast Asia with alkaloids that interact with opioid receptors, producing stimulant and sedative effects; linked to dependency and withdrawal.
Additional ingredients include fruit juice and sweeteners.
Marketing and popularity
editThe tonic has been promoted as a natural, legal alternative to alcohol and caffeine, and is widely available in convenience stores, health shops, and online. Social media marketing contributed to its growth, but also increased scrutiny over its appeal to young consumers.[3]
Health concerns
editMedia outlets and health experts have raised several concerns about the product:
- Addiction and withdrawal — Reports of dependence and withdrawal symptoms due to kratom content.[2]
- Liver and heart risks — Both kava and kratom have been linked to adverse health effects, including liver damage and increased heart rate.
- Use by minors — Experts have noted concerns about the drink’s appeal to teenagers and young adults.[3]
Lawsuits and regulation
editIn 2024, Botanic Tonics settled a class action lawsuit for $8.75 million after being accused of deceptive advertising, particularly regarding claims that Feel Free was non-addictive.[4] Following the settlement, the company agreed to include clearer labeling for kratom content, add 21+ restrictions, and fund safety studies.
Kratom and kava remain legal in most U.S. states, though both face increasing calls for stricter regulation.[1]
Reception
editSome consumers report positive effects, such as relaxation, focus, and use as an alcohol replacement. Others describe negative outcomes including anxiety, depression, withdrawal, and physical health issues. Media coverage has highlighted both the popularity of Feel Free and the risks associated with its ingredients.[1][2]
- ^ a b c d Sherwood, Harriet (30 August 2024). "The wellness drink for sober people that some say they can't stop drinking". The Guardian. Retrieved 23 August 2025.
- ^ a b c Heller, Corin Cesaric (11 September 2024). "Mom Becomes Addicted to Feel Free Energy Shot, Consuming 8 a Day: 'I Couldn't Stop'". People. Retrieved 23 August 2025.
- ^ a b c "Some Energy Drinks Contain a Potentially Addictive Ingredient—What Parents Need To Know". Parents. September 2024. Retrieved 23 August 2025.
- ^ "Botanic Tonics Class Action Settlement". Retrieved 23 August 2025.
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