herbs - Sarsaparilla (Smilax)

What is it?

Sarsaparilla is the name given to several different species of smilax. These include S. aristolochiaefolia (Vera Cruz, Mexico or Grey Sarsaparilla), S. febrifuga (Ecuador or Guayaquil Sarsaparilla), S. ornata (Jamaica, Costa Rica or Red Sarsaparilla), S. regelli (Honduras or Brown Sarsaparilla). The dried root is used in herbal medicine and is also sometimes used to flavour root beer.

Action

Sarsaparilla contains 1-3% steroidal saponins, namely smilagenin and sarsasapogenin, which appear to have some hormone-like properties. Sarsaparilla also contains phytosterols such beta-sitosterol which are thought give this herb its anti-inflammatory action. This herb is also anti-rheumatic, protective to the liver and a diuretic, as it increases the elimination of chlorides and uric acid from the body. In addition Sarsaparilla also improves the appetite and digestion.

Uses

Our experts recommend Sarsaparilla for:

• Eczema

Other information

Main uses of Sarsaparilla include:

• Psoriasis
• Acne
• Rheumatism and Rheumatoid arthritis
• Detox – to help cleanse the system
• Tonic

Cautions

• Generally there are no side effects from using Sarsaparilla, but in some cases it can cause stomach upsets and temporary discomfort to the kidneys.



• Until more is known about Sarsaparilla, it is best avoided during pregnancy or lactation.



• Sarsaparilla can also increase the absorption of drugs such as Bismuth and Digoxin (digitalis glycosides) which could raise the risk of toxicity. It is therefore best to consult your doctor if on these medicines before using this herb. 



• When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Sarsaparilla.

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