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Sarsaparilla is actually a vine from Central and South America adept at climbing, getting up to 40 meters long and... producing berries! The Spanish name "zarzaparrilla" for (1) the root beer-tasting plant(2) even means "bramble grape vine." Specifically, the up-to-eight-foot-long root is used as a medicinal herb(1).
Native Americans used it as a general-use medicine, including for skin conditions, bites, and minor wounds. "Ever since sarsaparilla was introduced to the West, people have used it to treat a variety of conditions and illnesses from gout and arthritis to coughs, fevers and high blood pressure."(1) Europeans used it to induce urination (and thus detoxification)(1,2), purify the blood, and induce sweating; the last two were uses common in the 1950s! Early studies on the plant in the 1940s involved topical application on psoriasis, of which 40% of participants saw improvement(1).
"Sarsaparilla derives the majority of its medicinal uses from plant sterols and natural antioxidants that are known to benefit human health. It is a rich source of flavonoids which are known to benefit the immune system, prevent cellular damage and reduce the inflammation responsible for numerous diseases"(1). Antibacterial properties responsible for skin-healthy properties(1,2) also help boost the immune system against "cold and other common illnesses". Anti-inflammatory properties "help loosen phlegm and mucus"(1) plus help relieve arthritis pains(2). Saponins deter insects from eating the leaves but also have anti-fungal properties in humans and help with hormonal balance(1).
Note: [Drinking the sugary drink sarsaparilla is NOT the way to consume the herb]. Sarsaparilla dust from the powdered form in particular may cause an asthma-like allergic reaction. Saponin content is natural but may cause upset stomach or diarrhea(2). Effects are unknown in young children and pregnant and nursing mothers so they are advised to avoid sarsaparilla just to be cautious(1,2).
References:
1. "5 Proven Sarsaparilla Benefits." Healthy Focus. Healthy Focus LLC. Web. 4 Jan. 2021. https://healthyfocus.org/sarsaparilla-benefits/.
2. Staughton, John. "8 Surprising Benefits of Sarsaparilla." Organic Facts: Let's Get Healthy Together. Organic Information Services Pvt Ltd. 1 Jul. 2020. Web. 4 Jan. 2021. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/sarsaparilla.html.
Native Americans used it as a general-use medicine, including for skin conditions, bites, and minor wounds. "Ever since sarsaparilla was introduced to the West, people have used it to treat a variety of conditions and illnesses from gout and arthritis to coughs, fevers and high blood pressure."(1) Europeans used it to induce urination (and thus detoxification)(1,2), purify the blood, and induce sweating; the last two were uses common in the 1950s! Early studies on the plant in the 1940s involved topical application on psoriasis, of which 40% of participants saw improvement(1).
"Sarsaparilla derives the majority of its medicinal uses from plant sterols and natural antioxidants that are known to benefit human health. It is a rich source of flavonoids which are known to benefit the immune system, prevent cellular damage and reduce the inflammation responsible for numerous diseases"(1). Antibacterial properties responsible for skin-healthy properties(1,2) also help boost the immune system against "cold and other common illnesses". Anti-inflammatory properties "help loosen phlegm and mucus"(1) plus help relieve arthritis pains(2). Saponins deter insects from eating the leaves but also have anti-fungal properties in humans and help with hormonal balance(1).
Note: [Drinking the sugary drink sarsaparilla is NOT the way to consume the herb]. Sarsaparilla dust from the powdered form in particular may cause an asthma-like allergic reaction. Saponin content is natural but may cause upset stomach or diarrhea(2). Effects are unknown in young children and pregnant and nursing mothers so they are advised to avoid sarsaparilla just to be cautious(1,2).
References:
1. "5 Proven Sarsaparilla Benefits." Healthy Focus. Healthy Focus LLC. Web. 4 Jan. 2021. https://healthyfocus.org/sarsaparilla-benefits/.
2. Staughton, John. "8 Surprising Benefits of Sarsaparilla." Organic Facts: Let's Get Healthy Together. Organic Information Services Pvt Ltd. 1 Jul. 2020. Web. 4 Jan. 2021. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/sarsaparilla.html.
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