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Sarsaparilla
(Smilax officinalis)
Description
Found throughout the tropical regions of the Americas, sarsaparilla
gained popularity among Europeans and Chinese as a treatment
for syphilis. As word of this treatment spread, sarsaparilla
soon became well known all over the world as a powerful medicine.
Also called "wild Liquorice," it was once used to
flavour soft drinks until large cola companies found better
ingredients for mass production. Although sarsaparilla has
been used to treat a wide variety of conditions, only a few
properties have been experimentally verified.
Herbal Uses
In parts of South America,
sarsaparilla was used to treat a variety of conditions, including
Arthritis, cancer, Skin diseases. It was also used to treat
Psoriasis and leprosy. Sarsaparilla has also been traditionally
used for women’s health concerns, and was believed to
have a progesterone-like effect. However, this hormonal effect
has yet to be established.
Suggested Intakes
Part of the plant used:
ROOT.
Capsules, 2-4 g three times
daily
Tincture, 2-4 ml three times daily.
Usually used in conjunction
with other herbs.
Supplemental Uses
Sarsaparilla may be used
to treat Eczema, Psoriasis, and rheumatoid Arthritis. It may
also be a possible treatment for microbial Infections, such
as venereal diseases. Studies have shown that sarsaparilla
possesses anti-inflammatory and liver-protecting properties
(1,2).
Safety and Precautions
Sarsaparilla may cause stomach
and kidney irritation (3).
Interactions and Contra-Indications
Avoid taking sarsaparilla
with digitalis or bismuth, for it can increase absorption
and/or elimination of these herbs (4).
References
1. Blumenthal, M (Ed.):
The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide
to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council. Austin, TX.
1998.
2. Ageel AM, Mossa JS, Al-Yahya MA, et al. Experimental studies
on antirheumatic crude drugs used in Saudi traditional medicine.
Drugs Exp Clin Res 1989;15:369-72.
3. Rafatullah S, Mossa JS, Ageel AM, et al. Hepatoprotective
and safety evaluation studies on sarsaparilla. Int J Pharmacognosy
1991;29:296-301.
4. Blumenthal, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs:
Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical
Council. Austin, TX. 1998. | 
