Tag: Alkaloid poisoning

In 2022, a food safety alert was issued in Australia following several hospitalizations from homemade poppy seed tea, highlighting the severe danger of consuming certain batches of poppy seeds. Understanding the potential risks associated with these tiny seeds is crucial for preventing health emergencies and legal complications.

Alkaloids are a diverse group of over 21,000 nitrogen-containing organic compounds found in approximately 20% of all vascular plants. While some, like caffeine and nicotine, are widely consumed for their stimulant properties, the question of whether alkaloids are toxic to humans is complex, with the answer depending heavily on the specific compound, dosage, and individual factors.