Sarsaparilla Root
Smilax aristolochiifolia
Smilax officinalis
“Smilax aristolochiifolia root has extensive medicinal uses. As the traditional medicine, it is used to treat leprosy, tumors, cancer, psoriasis and rheumatism. It is also used as tonic for anemia and skin diseases. It is reported to have anti-inflammatory, testosterogenic, aphrodisiac and progesterogenic effects. Therefore, sarsaparilla roots are often promoted as male rejuvenator. Not only that but it was used to build lean body mass by some gym enthusiasts. Also it is believed to improve digestion and arouse appetite. Natives in New Guinea use the stem of sarsaparilla as treatment for toothache. However, no definite scientific evidence is given to the medicinal effects of sarsaparilla and in excessive doses, it can be harmful.”
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smilax_aristolochiifolia
“Sarsaparilla is used in the United States and China for about the same purposes: rheumatism, arthritis, skin disease, venereal disease, fevers, digestive disorders and as a general tonic. Other countries, including Mexico and Honduras, use the plant in a similar way. But there is not a great deal of experimental evidence to support all of these uses, just the interesting fact that countries from around the world use the plant in the same way. One Chinese clinical study found a 90% degree of effectiveness against primary syphilis as determined by a negative blood assay. And a couple of studies have verified the presence of antibiotic principles. We can expect that further research will demonstrate the validity of other folklore claims for this universal tonic and remedy.”
- The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine,
