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Botanical nameSmilax spp.
Parts used and where grown
Many different species are called by the general name sarsaparilla. Various species are found in Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean. The root is used in herbal medicine.
Sarsaparilla has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
* - Eczema
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Parts used and where grown
Many different species are called by the general name sarsaparilla. Various species are found in Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean. The root is used in herbal medicine.
Sarsaparilla has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
* - Eczema
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
In Mexico, sarsaparilla was used by herbalists for rheumatism, cancer, skin diseases, and a host of other conditions.1 At the turn of the 20th century, there were reports of its use by herbalists for the treatment of leprosy.2 Sarsaparilla also has a tradition of use in various women’s health concerns and was rumored to have a progesterone-like effect. Sarsaparilla was formerly a major flavoring agent in root beer.
Active constituents
Sarsaparilla contains steroidal saponins, such as sarsasapogenin, which may mimic the action of some human hormones. This property remains undocumented, however. Sarsaparilla also contains phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol, which may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of this herb. Reports have shown anti-inflammatory3 and liver-protecting4 effects for this herb. Similar reports on the effect of sarsaparilla on psoriasis occur in early European literature.5
How much is usually taken?
Sarsaparilla is often taken in capsules, 2–4 grams three times per day.6 A tincture, 2–4 ml three times per day, may also be used.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
According to the German Commission E monograph, sarsaparilla may cause stomach irritation and temporary kidney irritation.7 Sarsaparilla should not be taken during pregnancy or breast feeding.
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
In Mexico, sarsaparilla was used by herbalists for rheumatism, cancer, skin diseases, and a host of other conditions.1 At the turn of the 20th century, there were reports of its use by herbalists for the treatment of leprosy.2 Sarsaparilla also has a tradition of use in various women’s health concerns and was rumored to have a progesterone-like effect. Sarsaparilla was formerly a major flavoring agent in root beer.
Active constituents
Sarsaparilla contains steroidal saponins, such as sarsasapogenin, which may mimic the action of some human hormones. This property remains undocumented, however. Sarsaparilla also contains phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol, which may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of this herb. Reports have shown anti-inflammatory3 and liver-protecting4 effects for this herb. Similar reports on the effect of sarsaparilla on psoriasis occur in early European literature.5
How much is usually taken?
Sarsaparilla is often taken in capsules, 2–4 grams three times per day.6 A tincture, 2–4 ml three times per day, may also be used.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
According to the German Commission E monograph, sarsaparilla may cause stomach irritation and temporary kidney irritation.7 Sarsaparilla should not be taken during pregnancy or breast feeding.
Drug Interactions
Certain medicines interact with sarsaparilla: Some interactions may increase the need for sarsaparilla (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate sarsaparilla should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Bismuth Subsalicylate (-)
Digoxin (-)
Certain medicines interact with sarsaparilla: Some interactions may increase the need for sarsaparilla (+), other interactions may be negative (-) and indicate sarsaparilla should not be taken without first speaking with your physician or pharmacist, others may require further explanation (?). Refer to the individual drug article for specific details about an interaction.
Note: The following list only includes the generic or class name of a medicine. To find a specific brand name, use the Medicines index.
Bismuth Subsalicylate (-)
Digoxin (-)
Source: www.cncahealth.com
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