Vitamins and dietary supplements are often viewed as harmless additions to daily health routines, but recent scientific evidence shows that certain high-dose supplements may cause more harm than good. While vitamins are essential for normal body function, excessive or unnecessary supplementation can place significant stress on the heart, liver and metabolic system. Fat-soluble vitamins, in particular, tend to accumulate in the body, increasing the risk of toxicity when taken in large amounts.

5 vitamins and supplements linked to heart and liver damage

1. Vitamin AVitamin A is essential for vision, immunity and skin health. However, because it is fat-soluble, the body stores excess amounts in the liver rather than excreting them. High-dose supplementation can therefore lead to accumulation and toxicity, causing liver inflammation, fibrosis and, in severe cases, liver failure. Excessive Vitamin A intake has also been associated with increased pressure inside the skull, bone fragility and potential disturbances in cholesterol metabolism, indirectly affecting cardiovascular health when consumed at unsafe levels.

A study published in the Journal of Hepatology reported that chronic high intake of Vitamin A significantly increased the risk of liver toxicity, with biopsy samples showing liver cell injury, fibrosis and early signs of cirrhosis among long-term high-dose users.2. Vitamin DVitamin D supports bone strength, immune function and hormone regulation. However, excessive supplementation can lead to Vitamin D toxicity, a condition that causes dangerously high calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcaemia). This can harden and calcify blood vessels, damage heart valves, and strain the kidneys and liver. High-dose Vitamin D is often taken without testing levels first, which increases the risk of accidental overdose and long-term cardiovascular complications.A study in the American Journal of Medicine found that individuals taking high-dose Vitamin D supplements had an increased risk of hypercalcaemia, which was associated with vascular calcification and reduced cardiovascular function.3. Vitamin EVitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, but when taken in large supplemental doses, it can thin the blood excessively and interfere with normal clotting. This may raise the risk of haemorrhagic stroke and increase bleeding tendencies. Some research also suggests that high doses may contribute to oxidative stress in the liver and disrupt lipid metabolism, creating additional cardiovascular strain.A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) concluded that high-dose Vitamin E supplementation was linked to an increased risk of haemorrhagic stroke. The findings indicated that doses above 400 IU daily may raise the likelihood of uncontrolled bleeding.4. Niacin (Vitamin B3)Niacin is used to support cholesterol management and energy production. However, supplement forms often contain doses far exceeding dietary needs. High-dose niacin can overload the liver, causing enzyme elevation, hepatitis or liver failure. It also increases inflammation in blood vessels and may promote arterial plaque buildup, reversing the very heart-protective effects it is often taken for.A study in Nature Medicine found that elevated niacin metabolites were strongly associated with arterial inflammation and a higher risk of cardiovascular events. The study suggested that excessive niacin intake may contribute to plaque formation and worsen heart disease risk.5. Green tea extractGreen tea extract contains concentrated levels of catechins, especially EGCG. While drinking green tea is safe, the supplement form delivers much higher doses, which can overwhelm the liver’s detoxification pathways. Liver injury caused by high-dose green tea extract has been reported worldwide, especially in weight-loss supplements. Excess catechins may also raise oxidative stress and strain cardiovascular function.A study published in the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Journal concluded that catechin intake above 800 mg per day could cause liver enzyme elevation and increase the risk of liver injury. The review highlighted high-dose green tea extract as a major contributor to supplement-induced liver toxicity.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, or lifestyle.

Oatbedient has released two flavours under its oat milk cafe range in Malaysia that expands on the popularity of Japanese matcha – Matcha Espresso and Hojicha.

Matcha espresso is a fusion drink that combines the earthy, slightly sweet flavour of matcha green tea with the bold, bitter notes of espresso.

Hojicha and matcha are both Japanese green teas, but they differ in processing, flavour and caffeine content. Hojicha is a Japanese green tea that is roasted, giving it a warm, nutty and slightly smoky flavour.

Oat Milk Hojicha: Oat Milk Powder, Roasted Green Tea Powder, and Sugar.

Oat Milk Matcha Espresso: Oat Milk Powder, Coffee Powder, Matcha Powder, and Sugar.

H.L, a businesswoman in HCMC in her early 40s, regularly had health checkups and was generally healthy. However, occasional colds and headaches made her uneasy.

In 2020, she underwent a full medical checkup, including a brain MRI, which showed no abnormalities. Her neurologic exam was normal, and no doctor prescribed or recommended supplements.

By 2022, she had neck pain, headaches, and dizziness, so she went for another health check. The second MRI results, compared to the previous images, revealed an abnormality: a cerebral blood vessel had suddenly become narrowed.

The doctor who examined L was Tran Chi Cuong, Chair of the HCMC Neurointervention Association. He said that the team searched for traditional risk factors but found none. This patient had a standard BMI, no high blood lipids, no diabetes, no hypertension, and no smoking or alcohol consumption.

After persistent questioning, L finally admitted that for several years she had been using many types of functional foods advertised to help maintain youth, lose weight, and enhance health.

When the doctor asked about the products, the female patient took out her phone and showed images of various bottles. The list was long: from multivitamins and collagen to imported herbal extracts.

The doctor believed that L was facing a serious problem by self-administering functional foods of unclear origin. It is impossible to confirm whether the ingredients had undergone full clinical research or guaranteed purity.

The patient’s symptoms appeared after prolonged use of the supplement products. The doctors were concerned that drug interactions or accumulated impurities could cause vasculitis, spasms, or blockages, potentially worsening the condition.

Another case involved N.T.L, 70, who came for an examination carrying a bag of “medicine” she was using. The doctors said that most of it was functional foods. Every day she took more than 10 pills, ranging from brain, kidney, and liver supplements to stroke prevention products.

Recently, a check-up showed signs of declining kidney function. Her son, who is also a medical expert, sent her to be examined at Tran Chi Cuong’s workplace.

The doctor spent more than one hour consulting the patient to help her understand and eliminate unnecessary functional foods. A few months later, the patient’s health improved. She asked her son to send thanks to the doctor for advising her to abandon the unnecessary bottles.

Doctor Cuong said that all patients using many supplements and functional foods are checked and advised to stop using the products. This is truly a simple, economical, and highly effective therapy. In some cases, the glomerular filtration rate was only 31 upon initial examination, but after reducing supplements, kidney function improved after just 1 month, rising to 39. This function in normal people is over 60.

According to many physicians, people should take functional foods only when they have clear evidence that they lack certain elements and need supplements. But most people just follow the descriptions on the box (enhance vitality, prenatal vitamins, menopausal women, etc) or, more simply, word of mouth recommendations

Dr Cuong believes that doctors should limit prescribing multiple drugs or functional foods to avoid interactions, side effects (liver-kidney), and increased costs.

The public should avoid believing advertisements on social media or word-of-mouth recommendations about health products, especially carry-on goods of unclear origin.

“One product may suit one person but may not suit another. Don’t ‘borrow’ someone else’s prescription and take supplements long-term without medical supervision,” he cautioned.

Instead of relying on pills, people should focus on lifestyle changes and a balanced diet, getting vitamins and fiber naturally from fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and having periodic medical checkups, as recommended by doctors.

Associate Professor Nguyen Lan Hieu, Director of Hanoi Medical University Hospital, said he is often asked about supplements. “I don’t prescribe them to my patients, and I don’t take them myself,” he added.

His recommendations are: First, research the origin and effects yourself before deciding to use. If still hesitant, it is best not to use. It is very dangerous to choose the wrong fake functional food or one with ingredients harmful to the pathology the user already has.

Second, if buying, choose types already recognized by developed countries and sold openly in supermarkets. Third, when using, really listen to your body; if you feel anything unusual, stop immediately.

In addition, he advises against using functional foods for long periods. The simple principle is: once your body has enough, there is no need to supplement.

Vo Thu

As Japan’s matcha growers seek official recognition, they join a long lineage of producers whose names — such as Champagne, Harris Tweed, Parmigiano Reggiano — are protected by law.

In Japan, the powdered green tea known globally as matcha is now at the intersection of tradition, global demand, and legal identity. With exports surging and a key growth market emerging overseas, producers and regional associations are moving to secure formal origin protection. In July, the Kyoto Prefectural Tea Chamber applied to register tencha — the shaded tea leaves ground into matcha—under Japan’s Geographical Indication (GI) system. The proposed designation would ensure that only tea produced in Kyoto Prefecture from hand-picked first-flush leaves could carry the certification mark.

The push comes amid mounting pressure on supply. Severe heatwaves in Japan’s tea-growing regions have slashed yields and driven up prices. Kyoto’s farmers reported a 25 percent drop in tencha harvests as of July, while consumer demand has surged globally. The matcha market is projected to reach about $5 billion by 2028. For producers, a legal designation represents more than prestige. It is a strategic tool to protect authenticity and value in a market increasingly crowded with imitations.

Unlike Champagne or Roquefort, which are tied to specific locations and centuries of regulation, the word matcha means “ground tea.” The term just describes a routine processing method, “like the ‘cheddaring’ of dairy curds which gives cheddar cheese its un-trademark-able name,” one report notes. Securing a GI for matcha means building a legal and cultural narrative around place, process, and tradition, particularly in Kyoto, Uji, and Nishio, which have produced shaded green teas for more than eight centuries.

The move follows a broader global shift. Traditional origin protections once reserved for wine, cheese, and spirits are expanding to encompass foods, crafts, and agricultural products vulnerable to imitation. Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) currently maintains about 130 registered geographical indications, including Kobe Beef and Yubari Melon, and has encouraged regional industries to pursue more. As matcha’s reputation becomes both cultural export and commodity, its producers are betting that legal origin protection will become essential to sustain credibility in the next phase of its global boom.

Geographical Indications

A geographical indication (GI) is a legally protected name that identifies a product as originating in a specific location where a particular quality, reputation, or characteristic is essentially attributable to that origin. The European Commission defines it as “a name which identifies a product as originating in a specific place, region or country where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of the product is essentially attributable to its geographical origin.”

GIs operate as intellectual property rights based on geography rather than brand ownership. They are recognized under the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) and, in the EU, administered through national agencies and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). The process is methodical: producers form a group, draft a technical file detailing production methods and geographic boundaries, and submit it for review by national authorities before EU-level examination. The process can take several years.

Once approved, a GI prevents unauthorized use of the protected name and blocks marketing that could mislead consumers about a product’s true origin. It also allows enforcement at customs and through trade agreements abroad. For producers, it transforms a regional specialty into an asset backed by law; for consumers, it offers a guarantee that origin, method, and quality are verifiable rather than rhetorical.

Japan’s matcha growers are now entering that arena — seeking to do for powdered green tea what France did for Champagne a century ago: turn geography into a mark of authenticity.

Other protected GI goods

Textiles and Crafts

Harris Tweed (Scotland)

Protected under the Harris Tweed Act of 1993, this woolen fabric must be handwoven by islanders in their homes in the Outer Hebrides and made from pure virgin wool dyed and spun locally. The Harris Tweed Authority inspects and certifies each bolt before export.

Murano Glass (Italy)

The Vetro Artistico Murano certification mark, created by regional law in 1994, protects glassware produced on the island of Murano using traditional methods. Only registered artisans and studios can use the trademark, which distinguishes genuine Murano craftsmanship from imported imitations.

Limoges Porcelain (France)

Granted a French indication géographique in 2017, Limoges porcelain can only be produced and decorated in Haute-Vienne. The protection ensures that centuries-old kiln traditions and clay-sourcing practices remain tied to the Limoges name.

Irish Linen (Northern Ireland)

Certified by the Irish Linen Guild, the trademark guarantees that the linen yarn is spun in Ireland and the fabric woven by guild members.

Spirits and Drinks

Champagne (France)

The Champagne Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) is the prototype for origin-based protection. Only sparkling wines produced in the Champagne region under specific viticultural and winemaking rules may bear the name. The Comité Champagne monitors global misuse and maintains recognition in over 120 countries.

Scotch Whisky (Scotland)

Protected by the Scotch Whisky Regulations of 2009, the GI mandates distillation and maturation in Scotland for at least three years in oak casks. It is enforced globally by the Scotch Whisky Association and recognized under trade agreements worldwide.

Cognac (France)

The Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC) regulates the GI, defining the region, grape varieties, and double distillation method. Recent international rulings, such as South Korea’s recent decision rejecting a “Cognac” shampoo trademark, underscore its global legal strength.

Tequila (Mexico)

Recognized as a Denominación de Origen since 1974, Tequila production is limited to five Mexican states and regulated by the Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT). The GI enforces agave sourcing, distillation, and bottling standards.

Foods

Parmigiano Reggiano (Italy)

Protected by EU PDO status, the cheese must be produced in specific provinces of northern Italy using raw cow’s milk and aged at least twelve months. Each wheel is inspected and fire-branded by the consortium before sale.

Roquefort (France)

One of Europe’s oldest protected cheeses, Roquefort gained AOC status in 1925. It must be made from raw ewe’s milk and aged in the natural limestone caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon.

Prosciutto di Parma (Italy)

PDO protection confines production to Parma province, where the microclimate allows natural air curing. Each ham bears the Ducal Crown mark, attesting to its origin.

Darjeeling Tea (India)

India’s first registered GI, Darjeeling Tea’s protection dates to 2004. The Tea Board of India certifies that the tea comes from the Darjeeling district and meets plucking and processing standards.

Related on Ethos:

In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Biochemical Genetics, researchers have undertaken a detailed investigation into the immune-modulating properties of the microalga Chlorella vulgaris. This unicellular organism has captivated scientists due to its rich nutritional profile and potential health benefits. The research team, comprising Robben, Amin, and Budiman, utilized a well-established mouse model to assess the implications of Chlorella vulgaris on immune gene expression, providing insights that could pave the way toward novel therapeutic interventions in immunology.

The utilization of Chlorella vulgaris in nutritional science has surged in popularity, primarily because of its high protein content, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. However, its potential immunomodulatory effects were less explored until this recent inquiry. By dissecting the interactions between Chlorella vulgaris and the immune system, the researchers aimed to illuminate mechanisms that could enhance immune responses during challenging conditions, such as viral infections or autoimmune disorders.

To set the stage for their experiments, the research team designed a series of controlled studies involving various dose escalations of Chlorella vulgaris, administered to laboratory mice over a specified duration. This meticulous approach allowed them to observe not only the immediate effects but also the longer-term impact of this alga on the immune system. The researchers coated their assessments with rigorous statistical frameworks, ensuring the reliability and reproducibility of the results.

One of the notable findings of the study was the alteration in gene expression profiles associated with immune responses in the mice that received Chlorella vulgaris. Specific immune markers demonstrated significant upregulation, suggesting that the microalga could indeed stir various immune pathways to enhance the animal’s defensive capabilities. The scientists leveraged advanced techniques such as RNA sequencing to pinpoint the genes that exhibited pronounced changes in expression levels.

Interestingly, the immunomodulatory effects observed in the trial correlated with the concentration of Chlorella vulgaris administered. A detailed dose-response relationship emerged, with higher concentrations inducing more significant changes in immune functionality. This discovery prompts critical considerations regarding potential applications in dietary supplements or functional foods aimed at enhancing immune resilience in humans.

Equally fascinating was the exploration of cytokine profiles, which are crucial players in the immune response network. The administration of Chlorella vulgaris appeared to recalibrate the balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines within the host. This shift could have profound implications, suggesting that this microalga may serve as a natural modulator of inflammation, a characteristic that could be leveraged in treating various inflammatory conditions.

Moreover, the study meticulously highlighted the underlying biochemical processes, shedding light on how specific phytonutrients and bioactive compounds present in Chlorella vulgaris may directly influence immune gene expression. By dissecting these complex interactions, the research significantly advances our understanding of the potential pharmacological applications of Chlorella vulgaris in immune modulation.

In addition to its implications for human health, the research possesses notable ecological significance. Given the increasing interest in sustainable and environmentally friendly food sources, Chlorella vulgaris emerges as a star player in the intersection of nutrition, health, and environmental sustainability. It can be cultivated efficiently, requiring minimal resources while offering considerable nutritional yields, thus providing a model for sustainable agricultural practices.

The implications of these findings extend beyond mere academic interest; they pose tantalizing prospects for the development of new therapeutic agents, particularly in the management of diseases where immune dysfunction is paramount. As the scientific community races to find effective treatments for immunological disorders, Chlorella vulgaris could represent a promising avenue for further investigation and development.

However, the research team acknowledges the necessity for follow-up studies involving human trials to fully validate the findings. While mouse models provide critical insights, translating these results into practical therapeutic applications requires further validation across different biological systems. The complexities of human immunology necessitate a cautious approach, with meticulous attention to detail in subsequent clinical studies.

The study ultimately reaffirms the potential of microalgae as beneficial dietary components, with Chlorella vulgaris leading the pack in terms of immune modulation. As we continue to explore the multifaceted roles of microalgae in our diet, the evidence continues to mount in favor of integrating such bioactive compounds into our daily nutrition.

In summary, Robben, Amin, and Budiman’s research marks a significant leap forward in our understanding of the nutritional and therapeutic potential inherent in Chlorella vulgaris. By elucidating its immunomodulatory effects in a controlled mouse model, this scientific endeavor opens the door to innovative health solutions that leverage natural products for enhanced immune resilience. As ongoing research seeks to refine these findings, the potential for Chlorella vulgaris to make waves in both the health and wellness sectors appears increasingly promising.

The findings intriguingly prompt a re-evaluation of dietary patterns, suggesting that incorporating foods rich in bioactive compounds can have profound implications on health. As consumers become more health-conscious and informed, the demand for functional foods that support immune health is expected to rise—making the timing of this research particularly relevant and impactful.

The broader implications of this study could also reshape how food scientists and nutritionists think about food sources, emphasizing the need for a more integrated approach to dietary planning and health management. By harnessing nature’s bounty and combining it with scientific rigor, a new frontier in health optimization may be on the horizon.

As we digest the findings presented by this research, it remains essential to maintain a dialogue within the scientific community, fostering collaboration and continued investigation into the health benefits of natural products. With each new study, we inch closer to unlocking the secrets behind the remarkable capabilities of microalgae, potentially transforming the health landscape for generations to come.

In conclusion, Chlorella vulgaris stands out not just as a superfood but as an emerging player in the field of immunology. As we continue to explore the depths of its potential, it becomes increasingly clear that the future of nutritional science may very well be green, with microalgae at the forefront of our efforts to enhance health and well-being globally.

Subject of Research: Immunomodulatory Activity of Chlorella vulgaris

Article Title: Evaluation of Immune Gene Expression Reveals Immunomodulatory Activity of Chlorella vulgaris in a Mouse Model

Article References: Robben, D.M., Amin, Z., Budiman, C. et al. Evaluation of Immune Gene Expression Reveals Immunomodulatory Activity of Chlorella vulgaris in a Mouse Model. Biochem Genet (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10528-025-11262-5

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10528-025-11262-5

Keywords: Chlorella vulgaris, Immunology, Immune Gene Expression, Nutritional Science, Microalgae, Cytokines, Immunomodulation, Health Benefits, Sustainable Food Sources.

Tags: autoimmune disorders researchChlorella vulgaris immune responsedose escalation studies Chlorellaessential fatty acids nutritionimmune gene expression studyimmune-modulating propertiesmicroalga health benefitsmouse model immunologynutritional science Chlorellaprotein-rich microalgatherapeutic interventions in immunologyviral infections immune response

190,322,800 Ordinary Shares of Green Tea Group Limited are subject to a Lock-Up Agreement Ending on 15-NOV-2025. These Ordinary Shares will be under lockup for 184 days starting from 15-MAY-2025 to 15-NOV-2025.

Details:

Each of the Controlling Shareholders agrees and undertakes to our Company and each of the Sponsor-Overall Coordinators, the Overall Coordinators, the Joint Global Coordinators, the Joint Sponsors, the Joint Bookrunners, the Joint Lead Managers, the Capital Market Intermediaries and the Hong Kong Underwriters that except pursuant to the Global Offering (including pursuant to the Over-allotment Option), at any time after the date of the Hong Kong Underwriting Agreement up to and including the date falling the First Six-Month Period, it/he/she will not, without the prior written consent of the Sponsor-Overall Coordinators (for themselves and on behalf of the Hong Kong Underwriters): (a) sell, offer to sell, contract or agree to sell, mortgage, charge, pledge, hypothecate, hedge, lend, grant or sell any option, warrant, contract or right to purchase, grant or purchase any option, warrant, contract or right to sell, or otherwise transfer or dispose of or create an Encumbrance over, or agree to transfer or dispose of or create an Encumbrance over, either directly or indirectly, conditionally or unconditionally, any Shares or any other securities of the Company or any interest in any of the foregoing (including any securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for or that represent the right to receive, or any warrants or other rights to purchase, any Shares or any other securities of the Company) beneficially owned by it as at the Listing Date (the ?Locked-up Securities?); (b) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of any Locked-up Securities; (c) enter into any transaction with the same economic effect as any transaction specified in (a) or (b) above; or (d) offer to or agree to do any of the foregoing or announce any intention to do so, in each case, whether any of the foregoing transactions is to be settled by delivery of share capital or such other securities, in cash or otherwise (whether or not the issue of such share capital or other equity securities will be completed within the First Six-Month Period); and (i) during the Second Six-Month Period, each of our Controlling Shareholders will not enter into any transaction described in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) above or agree or contract to or publicly announce any intention to enter into any such transaction if, immediately following such transaction, the shareholding of Time Sonic in the Company will be reduced to below 30%; and (ii) until the expiry of the Second Six-Month Period, in the event that he/she enters into any such transactions specified in paragraphs (a), (b) or (c) above or agrees or contracts to, or publicly announces an intention to enter into any such transactions, each of our Controlling Shareholders will take all reasonable steps to ensure that he/she will not create a disorderly or false market in the securities of our Company. The restrictions above do not apply to any pledge or charge of any Shares or other equity securities of the Company, as applicable, or any interest in any of the foregoing (including, without limitation, any securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for or that represent the right to receive, or any warrants or other rights to purchase, any Shares or other equity securities of the Company) after the Global Offering in favor of an authorized institution as defined in the Banking Ordinance (Cap. 155 of the Laws of Hong Kong) for a bona fide commercial loan.

Each Cornerstone Investor has agreed that it will not, and will cause its affiliates not to, whether directly or indirectly, at any time during the period of six months from (and inclusive of) the Listing Date (the ?Lock-up Period?), dispose of, in any way, any of the Offer Shares or any interest in any company or entity holding such Offer Shares that they have purchased pursuant to the relevant Cornerstone Investment Agreement, save for certain limited circumstances, such as transfers to any of its wholly-owned subsidiaries who will be bound by the same obligations of such Cornerstone Investor, including the Lock-up Period restriction.

Colon cleanses or enemas, which are encouraged as a part of Sonne’s 7-day cleanse, come with their risks. Colon cleansing involves flushing large amounts of water or other substances through the rectum and into the colon.

Plus, the Sonne’s 7-day cleanse, as well as many similar cleanses, promote the use of products that may not be safe.

“Packaged cleanses typically fall within the realm of dietary supplements, which are largely unregulated,” says Whitney Linsenmeyer, PhD, RD, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and an assistant professor of nutrition and dietetics at Saint Louis University in Missouri. “These may contain unlisted substances and may interact with other medications or supplements you are taking.”

HONEY PACKS ARE going viral on TikTok. But not the kind you use in your tea.

Instead, they’re the latest trendy supplement that claims to help men get stronger, longer-lasting erections—even faster than with a “little blue pill.” Social media is full of testimonials and suggestive posts from guys suddenly being ready to go after taking one (or more) of these packets.

So what exactly is a honey packet, and is it safe to take? Here’s what doctors know about this alleged erection enhancer.

What are honey packs?

HONEY PACKS HAVE no set formula, but are typically small quantities of honey mixed with ingredients that allegedly enhance your erection and sexual performance. Each brand offers a slightly different combination of additives, which can include ginseng, maca root, and black ginger root.

And they’re not hard to find. Amazon is filled with of packs with names like Royal Whole Night Honey, King, and Honey Bae. Some come with directions for use. Others don’t. Royal Whole Night Honey, for example, recommends tossing back a packet on its own or with lukewarm water two to three hours “before bed.” For best results, the brand suggests that you do this “regularly” for four months.

Though the ingredients and instructions vary across brands, the same legal disclaimer appears on their respective Amazon pages: “Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.”

Do Honey Packs Actually Work?

IF YOU ASK the companies that make and sell them—hell yes. However, there’s dubious scientific evidence supporting the claim that the advertised ingredients actually enhance sex drive, erections, or endurance.

For example, a 2022 study review on ginseng’s use for erectile dysfunction found the ingredient had a “trivial” effect compared to the placebo group. (Taking ginseng did, however, make more men believe they were doing great at sex.)

None of the components in honey packs have gone through randomized controlled trials that specifically looked at whether they improve penis health, says David Kaufman, MD, director of urology at Maiden Lane Medical in New York City. He calls honey packs “worthless.”

Another reason to be cautious: In 2022, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned that X Rated Honey For Men contained a hidden drug ingredient, tadalafil, the active ingredient in the prescription drug Cialis. More recently, the FDA warned that Secret Miracle Honey Extra Strength contained sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra), tadalafil, and acetaminophen (Tylenol), which were not listed on the product’s label.

“There is no evidence that these work [to treat erectile dysfunction],” says Jay Amin, MD, a urologist at Orlando Health Medical Group Urology. What might work to improve sexual function, he notes, are the hidden ingredients not included in the labels AKA tadalafil or sildenafil (active ingredient in Viagra). However, unlike prescription drugs that are tightly regulated, honey packs are not guaranteed to have these ingredients or at an appropriate dosage.

Generally, the FDA warns that the ingredients in honey packs may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs. They also note that honey packs may also lower blood pressure to dangerous levels.

“It could pose serious health effects for men who take multiple packets, thinking that they are natural herbal supplements,” Amin says. “Especially if they have underlying cardiac conditions or take other medications that these packages could interact with.”

What About Honey by Itself?

ONE OF THE main arguments for the supplements is that the main ingredient, honey, enhances sexual behavior on its own. It’s been a traditional remedy used in many cultures to help men and women with infertility. For example, pairing honey with milk is a traditional approach to increasing sperm count and boosting testosterone levels in Malaysia.

Honey does seem to work as a vasodilator—widening blood vessels to support good blood flow. Because erections require increased blood flow to your junk, this is good, right?

In theory, yes. A few animal studies have showed a possible link between honey and better penile health. For example, rats that were given Malaysian honey showed improved sperm counts and the ability to attain and maintain an erection, according to research from more than a decade ago. Another study from 2021 showed a boost in the testosterone levels of rats with damaged testes from malnutrition when they took daily doses of honey.

But just because a rat gets a boner in a study doesn’t mean you will in real life.

One issue is dosage. The rat erection study gave honey at 1.2 g/kg per body weight for rats, which is literally nothing for humans. How this dosage would translate for humans is currently unknown. The second is that the theory hasn’t technically been proven in humans. To date, there are no credible human studies that have tested or shown that honey will make you last longer in bed.

What to Do if You’re Having Erection Issues

IF YOU HAVE difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, urologists recommend coming in for an appointment. They can give you a thorough evaluation, come up with a treatment plan, and prescribe you medication (that’s actually proven to work) if necessary.

“PDE5 inhibitors—Viagra, Cialis—are really the best solution for erectile dysfunction,” Kaufman says. (But you want to get these from a doctor, not an online supplement retailer, to make sure you’re getting the appropriate medication and dosing for your needs.)

If you’re struggling with performance anxiety, these prescription medications can be a “temporary crutch” to help get you over the hump, Kaufman says. But if your erectile dysfunction is vascular or linked to a nervous system issue, the meds can work reliably and over the long-term, he adds.

But there’s no telling what you’ll get with a honey pack.

Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.

Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, MS is the associate health & fitness for Men’s Health and has previously written for CNN, Scientific American, Popular Science, and National Geographic before joining the brand. When she’s not working, she’s doing circus arts or working towards the perfect pull-up.

The Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress is a low-cost bed that often tops the Amazon bestseller list, but can it compare to this year’s best mattresses?

We put it to the test, spending three weeks sleeping on a full-size Zinus 10-inch Mattress, with feedback from a wider review panel and support from objective testing per our mattress methodology. (Spoiler: It’s a hit among side sleepers.)

WASHINGTON — The Council for Responsible Nutrition said it will continue its constitutional challenge to New York’s under-18 supplement sales restrictions after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit declined to grant a preliminary injunction, leaving the law in effect during the legal process.

CRN emphasized that the ruling does not address the merits of its First Amendment claims, which argue the law unlawfully targets truthful, lawful marketing by restricting sales of supplements labeled or promoted for weight loss or muscle building. The association maintains that the statute regulates speech rather than safety by using marketing as a proxy for potential harm, despite a lack of evidence linking dietary supplements to eating disorders or body dysmorphia.

In its response, CRN reiterated that the case remains ongoing and emphasized its confidence in the strength of its constitutional arguments. The group referenced a 2022 review published in Nutrients, which found no causal link between supplement use and disordered eating behaviors, and warned that policies based on unfounded assumptions could undermine legitimate health and wellness practices.

New York’s law, enacted in 2023 and effective since April 2024, was the first in the nation to restrict minors’ access to supplements marketed for weight loss and muscle building. Similar proposals are moving forward in other states, prompting CRN to raise broader concerns about regulatory overreach and the erosion of commercial free speech rights as it continues its legal battle.