World Green Nutrition, Inc., one of several companies named in an FDA advisory about tejocote products adulterated with a toxic botanical called yellow oleander, has expanded a recall of its “tejocote” products which was initiated in April. Since late 2023, health authorities have been aware that many supplements on the market claiming to contain tejocote (Crataegus Mexicana, also known as Mexican hawthorn) actually contained this toxic and potentially deadly adulterant.
 
Specifically, the recent FDA update notes that World Green Nutrition will recall more lot numbers of products under the Green ELV Nutrition brand, including Elv Control Herbal Supplement 90 Capsules,  and ELV Alipotec brand Mexican Tejocote Root Supplement Pieces.
 
Yellow oleander is a poisonous plant native to Mexico and Central America, and its consumption can lead to adverse effects on neurological, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular health that can be serious or even fatal. These symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart changes, arrhythmia, and more, according to FDA.
 
While these products were intended to be sold through authorized distributors, and not e-commerce platforms or physical stores, it is possible the products were purchased and further distributed through online and physical channels, the agency warned.