HJL,
The information from G.G. that referenced Sloan Kettering’s info on FDA banning Sassafras, is incorrect . In fact, Sassafras is used in food and can be purchased as a tea online from Pappy’s in Ohio. The food safe version is Safrole free; it is the oil that is carcinogenic. – Annie in Amish country
Still brewed the old fashion way from sassafras root bark (Sassafras albidum). Pappy’s Sassafras Tea is also very healthy for you as it is Safrole Free, Caffeine Free, Sugar Free, contains 0 Carbohydrates and Less than 1 Calorie per serving!
From Pubchem:
PubChem CID: 5144
Chemical Names: Safrole; Safrol; 5-Allyl-1,3-benzodioxole; Shikimole; 94-59-7; Sassafras; More…
Molecular Formula: C10H10O2
Molecular Weight: 162.1852 g/mol
InChI Key: ZMQAAUBTXCXRIC-UHFFFAOYSA-N
UNII: RSB34337V9
Safety Summary: Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary (LCSS)
Modify Date: 2015-10-17
Create Date: 2005-03-25
Safrole is a member of the BENZODIOXOLES that is a constituent of several VOLATILE OILS, notably SASSAFRAS oil. It is a precursor in the synthesis of the insecticide PIPERONYL BUTOXIDE and the drug N-methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDMA).
Safrole is a naturally-occurring, colorless to slightly yellow liquid that is soluble in ethanol, ether, and chloroform. Safrole is no longer used in the United States. Minimal exposure to safrole may occur through the use of edible spices, including nutmeg and mace, which contain low levels of this compound. It is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. (NCI05)
Safrole is a clear colorless or slightly yellow liquid with the odor of sassafras. Denser than water (density 1.09 g / cm3) and insoluble in water. Hence it sinks in water. Obtained from oil of sassafras or oil of camphor.