Warning about kratom based drinks spans social media

A viral TikTok story about a kratom drink called Feel Free raises questions about safety and regulation.

TikTok warnings about Feel Free herbal tonic

In Austin, Texas, Misha Brown says a teenage boy asked him to buy Feel Free, a blue shot-size herbal drink. Brown refused and says the teen tried to grab his wallet. A Circle K clerk pointed Brown to Feel Free, which the store says is a product that supports relaxation, focus and energy. The drink combines kava with kratom, a plant linked to stimulant and opioid-like effects. Brown’s TikTok about the encounter has drawn millions of views and sparked warnings from others about the product’s effects.

Botanic Tonics, the maker of Feel Free, settled a 2023 class action for 8.75 million dollars over claims it failed to warn consumers about kratom risks and advertised the drink as a safe alcohol substitute. The settlement did not require an admission of wrongdoing, and the label now notes that the product can be habit forming and that people with a history of substance abuse should consider not consuming it. Regulators have long flagged kratom as not federally regulated and have pushed for tighter controls, while five states have banned kratom. The FDA has considered classifying 7-OH, a key kratom compound, as an illicit substance, though Feel Free uses plant-based kratom and not synthetic 7-OH. Utah has banned the sale of Feel Free products as well.

The rapid spread of Feel Free stories on social media shows how online posts can amplify health concerns before regulators step in. Kratom sits at the heart of a widening debate about what category it should occupy—drug, supplement, or something in between—while vendors push marketing that frames it as a safer, alcohol-free option. Health experts warn about addiction and withdrawal risks, and the FDA’s cautious stance underscores the lack of clear federal rules. The case also tests how quickly policy can respond when personal testimonials turn into widespread alarm online.

Highlights

The coming months will show whether safeguards keep pace with online chatter.