FDA warns that certain tejocote root supplements contain toxic yellow oleander

An FDA analysis has determined that certain dietary supplements labeled as tejocote (Crataegus mexicana) root were substituted with yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia), a poisonous plant native to Mexico and Central America and a toxic substance of public health concern. Ingestion of yellow oleander can cause neurologic, GI, and CV adverse health effects that may be severe, or even fatal. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dysrhythmia, among others. These products are typically sold online through third-party platforms, such as Amazon and Etsy.