Sarsaparilla, known scientifically as Smilax regelii, is a versatile plant recognized for its medicinal properties worldwide. It’s used in various forms, including evergreen shrubs, deciduous trees, and climbing vines, often adorned with clusters of red or purple berries. This tropical vine, thriving in the rainforest canopy, bears berries of different hues, including lustrous black, purple-blue, and red.
RELATED: 6 Drinks that are good for the body and mind
Table of Contents
Nutritional Value of Sarsaparilla
The root of sarsaparilla has a rich nutritional profile, boasting a variety of active chemical properties. These include powerful antioxidants, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory compounds such as saponins, plant sterols, flavonoids, steroidal phytochemicals like diosgenin, tigogenin, asperagenin, as well as starch, volatile oils, and acids. Additionally, it contains essential minerals like aluminum, chromium, iron, magnesium, selenium, calcium, and zinc.
Anti-Tumor and Cancer-Preventative Properties of Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla offers a multitude of health benefits. It’s traditionally used in different forms like powder, raw herb, or tea to address various health issues like PCOS, urinary tract infections, acne, kidney stones, and fibroids. The herb’s anti-tumor and cancer-preventative properties are attributed to its high concentration of natural steroids and saponins, along with antioxidants that neutralize free radicals. Sarsaparilla is also effective in treating arthritis pain, thanks to compounds like saponins and parillin that alleviate pain and inflammation.
Moreover, sarsaparilla boosts the immune system, helping in the treatment of common colds and flu by eliminating mucus buildup. Its antibacterial properties, coupled with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, contribute to respiratory health. The herb is also known for enhancing sex drive, improving fertility, and overall sexual health due to its organic compounds that enhance blood flow and sperm motility.
Sarsaparilla’s detoxifying properties are notable too. Its diuretic nature promotes urine production and sweating, aiding in fluid release and swelling reduction. This process also involves binding to gastrointestinal toxins, preventing them from causing harm in the bloodstream. For skin issues like eczema, acne, psoriasis, and minor wounds, sarsaparilla’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties offer natural remedies. Additionally, it is beneficial in weight management by suppressing appetite.
Side-Effects & Allergies of Sarsaparilla
Despite its numerous benefits, sarsaparilla can cause side effects, particularly when overdosed or used long-term. These include stomach irritation, allergic reactions, diarrhea, indigestion, and worsening asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals.
Cultivation of Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla is native to South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. It was popular in Europe during the 1950s for its medicinal uses as a general tonic, blood purifier, and sweat promoter. The plant, typically woody or thorny, thrives in tropical, warm, and temperate regions globally.