Michigan health officials are warning residents about certain weight loss supplements that may contain a poisonous plant.
The US Food and Drug Administration has identified some products labeled as Tejocote root or Brazil seed that actually contain yellow oleander. Yellow oleander is a toxic plant native to Mexico and Central America.
Consuming it can cause serious health problems affecting the nervous system, stomach, and heart. In severe cases, it can be deadly.
The supplements are often sold on websites like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy.
Health officials urge anyone using these types of supplements to stop immediately and throw them away. If you have taken the products, contact your doctor right away, even if it was some time ago.
For more information, visit the Branch-Hillsdale-Saint Joseph Community Health Agency’s website at bhsj.org