Arizona Attorney General Sued Botanic Tonics
The state alleges the company failed to disclose addiction risks for its kratom-based herbal tonic, Feel Free.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Substance Abuse
Live Poll
Should states impose stricter advertising regulations on herbal supplements marketed for mood and focus?
The Arizona Attorney General has filed a consumer protection lawsuit against Botanic Tonics for allegedly violating the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act. The state claims the company failed to warn customers about the risks of addiction and withdrawal associated with its kratom and kava product, Feel Free.
Why it matters
The legal action asserts that the company endangered public health by improperly marketing its herbal beverage to vulnerable groups, including college students. Authorities are now targeting the company's reliance on youth-focused advertising strategies.
The lawsuit concerns Feel Free, a 2-ounce herbal tonic that contains kratom and kava. State officials report there were 146 kratom-related deaths in Arizona between 2020 and 2023, while millions of these shots have been sold statewide since 2020.
The players
Arizona Attorney General
This is the chief legal officer of the state, responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and representing the state in civil and criminal litigation.
Botanic Tonics
This is a beverage manufacturer that produces and markets the herbal tonic known as Feel Free.
Arizona Department of Health Services
This state agency manages public health programs and tracks mortality data relevant to emerging health trends in the state.
The details
The lawsuit alleges that Botanic Tonics marketed its kratom-containing beverage at gas stations, convenience stores, and online without sufficient health disclosures. Furthermore, the state identifies the company's use of college campuses and students in its promotional efforts as a primary concern.
Timeline
Between 2020 and 2023, there were 146 documented kratom deaths in Arizona.
Millions of kratom shots have been sold in Arizona since 2020.
The Arizona Attorney General filed the lawsuit on September 23, 2026.
Health Landscape
The lawsuit follows a pattern set by the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act in holding manufacturers accountable for deceptive marketing practices. This legal move reflects a growing scrutiny by state regulators toward the sale of unregulated herbal stimulants marketed to young adults.
Residents should be aware of the potential for addiction and withdrawal associated with kratom-based products sold at common retail outlets like convenience stores. Consumers are encouraged to monitor future state updates regarding these products to better understand individual health risks.
The takeaway
Consumers should exercise caution when purchasing unregulated herbal tonics, as their long-term health effects may not be fully understood. Researching the ingredients and potential side effects of any supplement is a vital step toward maintaining personal health.
What happens next
The attorney general's office plans to host a future forum that will allow Arizona consumers to share their personal experiences regarding kratom products.
Further reading
For more on how state officials are tracking and addressing emerging stimulant trends, visit the Substance Abuse section.
Live Poll
Should states impose stricter advertising regulations on herbal supplements marketed for mood and focus?
