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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.