"Feel Free" is a commercial herbal drink developed by Botanic Tonics, containing a blend of kava root extract and kratom, along with other natural botanicals. It is marketed as a mood booster, productivity enhancer, and a natural stress-reliever or substitute for alcohol and stimulants. The drink is sold in small blue bottles and claims to provide relaxation, mental clarity, and social ease without alcohol. Key ingredients:
- Kava: A root from the South Pacific known for sedative, muscle-relaxing, and euphoric properties.
- Kratom: A Southeast Asian tree whose leaves act on opioid receptors in the brain. It can be a stimulant at low doses and produce opioid-like, sedative effects at higher doses.
- Other botanicals and adaptogens with less pharmacological activity.
While promoted as a natural alternative, "Feel Free" has raised concerns due to risks associated with kratom and kava, including:
- Dependency and withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, mood swings, nausea, muscle aches).
- Liver toxicity from kava, especially with long-term use.
- Potential mood instability and mental health effects.
- Risk of addiction, especially because kratom is chemically addictive and FDA has flagged it as a substance of concern.
"Feel Free" is not alcohol but produces psychoactive effects through its ingredients. It is considered controversial due to reports of addiction, dependence, and health risks. Experts advise caution, particularly for people in recovery from addiction and those with sensitive health conditions. The product is popular among young people and available widely in gas stations and supplement shops, but its addictive potential and health risks have led to warnings and increased scrutiny by health officials. In summary, "Feel Free" is an herbal drink combining kava and kratom aimed at relaxation and focus but carries significant risks of addiction and adverse health effects.
