An alarming lawsuit has raised questions about Dr. Bronner’s—a family-owned soap company celebrated for its progressive ideals and famed products like its multi-use liquid soaps. The family of Denise Lozano, a former employee, is pursuing legal action, claiming that Dr. Bronner’s fosters a risky culture of drug use that directly contributed to her accidental overdose death.

Dr. Bronner’s, known for its 77-year history, eco-conscious practices, and unique soap labels advocating peace, has become increasingly vocal in promoting psychedelic drug reform and alternative therapies. However, this once-admired ethos has now sparked a polarising debate.

What Is Dr. Bronner’s Stance on Psychedelics?

Dr. Bronner’s has long championed drug policy reforms, particularly those involving psychedelics. Since 2019, the company has donated over $14 million towards psychedelic research and advocacy causes. It has also actively supported the development of psychedelic-assisted therapy for mental health conditions.

David Bronner, CEO of the company, openly discusses his belief in psychedelics as tools for achieving personal clarity and societal harmony. He famously refers to himself as the “Cosmic Engagement Officer” and has heavily intertwined these ideologies into the company’s public-facing image.

The Ketamine Controversy and Employee’s Death

The lawsuit brought forward by Lozano’s family centres on the events leading to her untimely death in 2022. According to claims, Lozano, part of Dr. Bronner’s events team called the “Foamy Homies,” received a so-called “ketamine massage” from an unlicensed energy healer, Christian Allbert, allegedly arranged by David Bronner and his wife. Instead of ketamine, the autopsy revealed MDA, a drug similar to MDMA, in her system—leading to a fatal overdose. The family claims that Lozano had been misled into thinking the dangerous massage was part of the company’s health benefits package.

The lawsuit portrays a troubling culture at Dr. Bronner’s, particularly within its events team, where psychedelics were reportedly common. The team coordinated outreach efforts at festivals like Burning Man and assisted in humanitarian missions. Lozano was described as a dedicated member who had maintained sobriety, often acting as the “camp mum” in a team culture at odds with her values.

How Dr. Bronner’s Drug Use Practices Are Being Questioned

Corporate Responsibility or Dangerous Approach?

Dr. Bronner’s employees could access ketamine-assisted mental health therapy through a company benefit provided by third-party service Enthea. These sessions adhered to strict medical protocols including psychiatric evaluations. However, the unauthorised nature of Allbert’s massage highlights the risks of unregulated drug use within the company and raises questions about corporate accountability.

The incident underscores the dangers of blurring the line between progressive health approaches and recreational misuse. Although Dr. Bronner’s insists it had no part in endorsing unlicensed treatments, the lawsuit suggests otherwise.

Safety of Psychedelic Therapies Under Scrutiny

Ketamine shows promise for mental health treatments, but medical professionals must administer it in controlled environments. Cases like Lozano’s highlight the risks tied to unregulated practices, reinforcing calls for stringent oversight of alternative therapies.

Dr. Bronner’s progressive image has undoubtedly helped make advancements in this area mainstream. However, its alignment with substances like MDMA also brings significant regulatory and safety challenges into focus.

A Divided Legacy

Dr. Bronner’s family values once earned the company admiration as a beacon of sustainability and social responsibility. However, its increasing association with psychedelic practices has cast a shadow over its reputation.

Lozano’s tragic end serves as a cautionary tale for companies with progressive ideals. While innovation and alternative thinking can pave the way for societal change, organisations hold responsibility for safeguarding employees and preventing harm.

Source: Kpbs