herb data, Sarsaparilla, Smilax officinalis, Jamaica sarsaparilla, guay-quill sarsaparilla, red sarsaparilla, holisticonline.com

Herb Information

Name: Sarsaparilla

Biological Name: Smilax officinalis

Liliaceae

Other Names: Sarsaparilla, Jamaica sarsaparilla, guay-quill sarsaparilla, red sarsaparilla

Parts Used: Root and rhizome

Active Compounds:

	Saponins, based on the aglycones sarsapogenin and smilagenin; the major one being parillin (=sarsaponin), with smilasaponin (=smilacin) and sarsaparilloside
	b-sitosterol, stigmasterol and their glucosides.

Remedies For:

Alterative, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, diaphoretic, demulcent, antisyphilitic, stimulant, antiscorbutic.

Sarsaparilla is a widely applicable alterative. It may be used to aid proper functioning of the body as a whole and in the correction of problems such as skin and rheumatic conditions. It is particularly useful in scaling skin conditions such as psoriasis, especially where there is much irritation. As part of a wider treatment for chronic rheumatism it is especially useful for rheumatoid arthritis.

Sarsaparilla contains constituents with properties that aid testosterone activity in the body. Traditional herbalists used this herb for syphilis, herpes, rheumatic affections, dropsy, gonorrheal rheumatism, syphilitic sore throats, and for chronic hepatic disorders.

Combinations : For psoriasis it will combine well with Burdock, Yellow Dock and Cleavers.

Description:

The plants are climbing vines native to tropical America and the West Indies.

Dosage:

Decoction: Pour 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the root in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

Tincture: Take 1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety:

No information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.