An Indian patient was recently hospitalized with signs of acute liver injury following the consumption of a jasmine-flavored instant coffee imported from China. The case, highlighted by a hepatology specialist, Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, widely known as The Liver Doc has raised concerns regarding the safety of herbal and plant-based beverages that are sold without adequate regulatory oversight. The patient reportedly developed symptoms shortly after regular intake of the product, drawing attention to potential risks associated with unidentified botanical ingredients.

Clinical Presentation and Medical Findings

The patient presented with symptoms consistent with liver dysfunction, including jaundice, dark-coloured urine, and severe itching. Laboratory investigations showed abnormal liver function tests, indicating hepatic injury. Doctors systematically ruled out common causes such as viral hepatitis, alcohol-related liver disease, autoimmune disorders, and prescription drug toxicity. With no alternative medical explanation identified, clinicians noted a temporal association between the onset of symptoms and the consumption of the jasmine-flavored coffee.

Identification of the Suspected Trigger

According to Dr. Philips, the patient had been consuming multiple cups daily of a product marketed as “Chinese jasmine coffee” for nearly a week prior to hospital admission. The product was sold under the brand name Dian Er Wa and promoted as a herbal or flavored beverage. The patient showed gradual clinical improvement after discontinuing the drink and receiving supportive medical care, strengthening the likelihood of a product-related liver injury.

Botanical Misidentification and Toxicity Risks

While true jasmine species such as Jasminum sambac and Jasminum officinale, are commonly used in food and beverages in small quantities, several plants marketed under the name “jasmine” are not botanically related. Some of these plants contain compounds that are toxic to humans. Species such as night-blooming jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum), Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and star jasmine (Trachelospermum species) contain alkaloids or glycosides known to interfere with normal organ function. Ingestion of such substances can lead to liver, kidney, or neurological damage.

Public Health and Regulatory Context

There are concerns about the growing market for herbal beverages and wellness products. Many such items are imported or sold online without clear labelling, ingredient verification, or safety testing. Unlike regulated pharmaceuticals and foods, herbal products often bypass rigorous evaluation, increasing the risk of unintended exposure to harmful compounds. Medical professionals emphasize that plant-based or “natural” labelling does not guarantee safety.

Key Takeaway for Consumers and Clinicians

Healthcare experts advise caution when consuming unfamiliar herbal drinks, especially products with unclear ingredient sources or origin. Individuals who develop symptoms such as jaundice, unexplained fatigue, itching, or dark urine after consuming such products should seek prompt medical attention. Early recognition and discontinuation remain critical in preventing progression to severe liver damage.

(Rh/SS)