SarsaparillaSarsaparilla alone or with sassafras are the herbs from which root beer is made. The flavor is the natural flavor of Sarsaparilla and its saponin content.
The root of several woody climbing plants native to Central and South America constitute the drug sarsaparilla.
All of them are species of the genus Smilax, belonging to the family Smilacaceae. Included are S. aristolochiaefolia Miller, known as Mexican sarsaparilla, S. regelii Killip and Morton, commonly referred to as Honduran sarsaparilla, S. febrifuga Kunth, or Ecuadorian sarsaparilla, as well as other undetermined species of Smilax.
After it was introduced to Europe from the New World in the mid-sixteenth century, the drug was valued primarily as a treatment for syphilis.
This reputation, disguised under the terms “alterative” or “blood purifier,” continued in medical circles well into the present century.
Sarsaparilla contains a mixture of saponins derived mainly from sarsapogenin and smilagenin. The saponins have a strong diuretic action as well as some diaphoretic, expectorant, and laxative properties.
In addition, the plant material is a moderately useful flavoring agent. Neither the whole drug its contained saponin is effective in the treatment of syphilis or as a “blood purifier.”
Sarsaparilla may be a minor medicinal herb, but it’s not worthless. Research shows that it has some benefits.
Physicians often describe diuretics for blood pressure.
High blood pressure is a serious condition that requires professional care. Diuretics deplete the body of potassium, and essential nutrient. In case sarsaparilla used frequently in overall treatment, be sure to eat potassium rich foods such as bananas and fresh vegetables.
Pregnant women should not use diuretics. As a diuretic, though, sarsaparilla may provide some relief for women bothered by premenstrual fluid retention.
Sarsaparilla
