Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla
Smilax officinalis
AKA: Honduras sarsaparilla, Red sarsaparilla, Spanish sarsaparilla
Portrait: Perennial. Native to Central America and the tropical Amazonian rain forests of South America. Naturalized and cultivated in the temperate regions of Asia and Australia. Seen in the wild as a trailing vine that climbs by means of thorns and tendrils. Roots are gathered throughout the year as needed.
Medicinal Element: Roots
Herbal Properties: Carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, tonic
Summary: The original main flavoring agent for old-fashioned root beer, sarsaparilla is traditionally considered a medicinal herb used to refresh the body and provide therapeutic support to individuals recuperating from long-term illnesses. Recent research suggests that this herb possesses steroidal properties, specifically those similar to testosterone and progesterone, which may enhance physical performance, relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, and elicit stronger sexual responses from both men and women. Once used as a treatment for syphilis in the 16th century, sarsaparilla is now sometimes recommended to relieve pain and inflammation from gout and rheumatoid arthritis. A cooled infusion of sarsaparilla has also been used externally as a soothing wash for irritated, inflamed skin. Do not use sarsaparilla if taking blood-thinning agents.
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