County's Health & Sheriff Departments Warn Residents to Avoid Products Containing Kratom and 7-OH12

February 7, 2026 - 20:54

Health and safety officials in Santa Barbara County are urging the public to immediately avoid all food, dietary supplements, and other products containing kratom or a compound known as 7-OH. This joint advisory from the County Public Health Department and the Sheriff’s Office highlights significant and potentially severe health risks associated with these substances.

Authorities emphasize that products containing these ingredients are not approved for any medical use and are considered unsafe for human consumption. The warning comes amid growing concerns over adverse health effects linked to their use. Reported symptoms of concern can include severe nausea, agitation, rapid heart rate, drowsiness, and high blood pressure. In more serious cases, use has been associated with liver toxicity, seizures, and even death.

The advisory stresses that these substances pose a particular risk due to their unregulated nature, with products varying widely in strength and purity. Officials are specifically cautioning residents against purchasing or consuming any powders, pills, capsules, or drinks that list kratom, mitragynine, or 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as ingredients. The public is reminded that natural does not mean safe, and these products should not be considered harmless herbal supplements.

Local law enforcement and health departments are coordinating to monitor the situation and remove any such products from local retail shelves where possible. Residents who experience any adverse health effects after consuming these substances are advised to seek immediate medical attention and to report the incident to their healthcare provider. The community-wide warning aims to prevent further illness and protect public health.