Sarsaparilla

Botanical name: Smilax 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. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a 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 flavouring 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.

Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with sarsaparilla. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.

References
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1. Duke JA. CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1985, 446.

2. Bradley PR (ed). British Herbal Compendium, vol 1. Bournemouth, Dorset, UK: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1992, 194–6.

3. 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.

4. Rafatullah S, Mossa JS, Ageel AM, et al. Hepatoprotective and safety evaluation studies on sarsaparilla. Int J Pharmacognosy 1991;29:296–301.

5. Hobbs C. Sarsaparilla, a literature review. HerbalGram 1988;17:1, 10–5 [review].

6. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. (eds). The Complete Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998, 372–3.

7. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. (eds). The Complete Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998, 372–3.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.