Why is the Tonka Bean Banned?
A Tonka bean is a seed from the Dipteryx odorata tree, also known as the Tonka Bean tree, which originates in South America. The word "Tonka" comes from a native language of French Guiana called Galibi (Garbi).
Many anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin, are based on 4-hydroxycoumarin, a chemical derivative of coumarin that is isolated from Tonka beans. These beans also contain compounds that may reduce and water retention.
While these beans are used for various purposes, not all of these uses are scientifically proven to be safe or effective for consumers.