People's relationship to basil has been divided for thousands of years. While the herbal plant is still revered as sacred in its country of origin, India, it has repeatedly been accused of being a he alth hazard throughout its history.
Is basil poisonous in normal quantities?
Basil can be considered poisonous in high doses, but the toxic dose for humans is only reached from 20 leaves per day. There is no danger for normal consumption as a spice, but therapeutic use and use in teas for infants should be avoided.
Current research has shown that kingweed has a carcinogenic effect on mice at a certain dosage. The Federal Office for Risk Assessment therefore recommends preventatively:
- Use basil only as a spice in the kitchen
- do not use the herb plant to make tea for infants and young children
- Avoid therapeutic use as a remedy for adults
Please note that this is purely a precautionary measure, as there is currently a lack of scientific knowledge regarding its effect on human physiology. If the values from animal research are extrapolated to a human, the toxic dose starts at 20 leaves of basil per day. The all-clear is given to hobby gardeners, because there is nothing wrong with growing in the garden or on the balcony.
