Description :
This prickly climbing or trailing vine is native to Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. It can grow to over 150 feet in length. The berries of sarsaparilla range in color from rosy red to bluish-purple to lustrous black. The fruit is popular among wild birds and humans. Certain varieties of Sarsaparilla can also be found in India and China. Sarsaparilla is a member of the Liliaceae (Lily) family and includes over 300 unique species. Aside from its more modern use as a flavoring in soft drinks, Sarsaparilla was used by Early American Colonists in treating syphillis.
History and Folklore:
Sarsaparilla root is used as a primary ingredient in old-fashioned style root beer. The word Sarsaparilla comes from the Spanish words sarza – a bramble, and parilla – a vine, in description of the thorny stems of the plant. Sarsaparilla was registered in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia from 1820 to 1910 as a treatment for syphilis.
Cultivation and Harvest:
To harvest the root, carefully dig around the base of the plant that is 2 to 3 years old. Remove dirt from the loosened area to expose as much of the root as possible. The roots can then be dried in bundles and chopped or ground for teas and tinctures.
Precautions:
Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use if you have epilepsy. Do not use for extended periods.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Alterative, Anti-inflammatory, Diaphoretic
Other Names:
Sarsaparilla, Honduran Sarsaparilla, Jamaican Sarsaparilla, Indian Sarsaparilla, and East Indian Sarsaparilla
Related Species:
Salvia apiana, S.arizonica, S. azurea, S. carduacea, S.clevelandii, S. dorrii, S. farinacea, S. greggii, S. lemmonii, S. leucophylla, S. mohavensis, S. spathacea
Koosumbha, Hoang-tchi
Tincture Ingredients: Sarsaparilla (Smilax ornata)
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
Xavier –