A method for racemization of optically active amines which comprises contacting an optically active amine of the formula: ##STR1## wherein C* is an asymmetric carbon atom, R.sub.1 is alkyl, aralkyl or aryl and R.sub.2 is aryl or alkoxycarbonyl, the aryl or aralkyl moiety bearing optionally one or more alkyl or alkoxy groups on the aromatic ring, provided that R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are always different from each other, with a catalyst comprising an alkali metal and a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon until a sufficient amount of the optically active amine is racemized.