Kava article

I TAKE objection to the recent opinion from University of Waikato lecturer Dr Apo Aporosa. First, Dr Aporosa notes a wrongful death complaint in the state of Washington. In the next paragraph, he mentions the brand name, feel free, insinuating a connection. There is no connection between Botanic Tonics’ feel free and that case.

Second, on a larger scale, it is important to note Botanic Tonics honours the global culture and traditions of kava. Based on his experience with the plant, Botanic Tonics founder, JW Ross, sought to create a product that gave him the same productivity enhancement, mood lift and calm as he had experienced during his travels in the South Pacific and Southeast Asia. One of the core beliefs of Botanic Tonics is a commitment to supporting small, individual farmers who grow and harvest kava the same way they’ve done for centuries. As a US based company, we honour that tradition.

The claims made throughout the article are irresponsible, inaccurate, and are in no way substantiated by facts or data. In fact, Dr Aporosa’s premise about infringement in the kava industry is unfounded and unwarranted. At Botanic Tonics, we are ardent supporters of regional culture, providing jobs and economic opportunities to hundreds of local families.

To have our name carelessly lumped in with baseless accusations is an insult to our dedicated customers and our team. Your readers deserve to be presented with the facts.

CAMERON KOREHBANDI

Chief executive officer

Botanic Tonics

Los Angeles, CA, US