> the fact that a culture has used a substance for a long time does not somehow preclude the notion that it could have toxic effects It doesn’t preclude it, bu

> the fact that a culture has used a substance for a long time does not somehow preclude the notion that it could have toxic effects It doesn’t preclude it, but it absolutely suggests that a reasonable default assumption is that it is safe when used the same way. Note that I’m not talking about some obscure, minor use. Hoja Santa, for instance, is used very widely across southern and central Mexico for wrapping food (infusing it with safrole), in soups, beverages, etc. It’s a beloved, signature flavor.