Smilax officinalis
Sarsaparilla
Smilacaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Sarsaparilla
- Scientific name
- Smilax officinalis
- Family
- Smilacaceae
- Region
- Central America
- Plant part
- Root
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Insufficient
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
A climbing woody vine with heart-shaped parallel-veined leaves and tendrils, small greenish-white flowers, and round dark berries; the thick starchy tuberous root is the part used.
Also known as: Smilax, Jamaican Sarsaparilla, Honduran Sarsaparilla
Historical Background
Sarsaparilla has been used for centuries by Indigenous Mesoamerican and Caribbean peoples, and became a wildly popular tonic in 19th-century America and Europe. Its starchy, sweet-earthy root flavored the original 'root beer' and was brewed as a traditional vitality and joint tea.
Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous Mesoamerican and Caribbean traditions for centuries; a popular tonic in 19th-century American and European medicine.
Traditional preparations:
- Root decoction
- Traditional root-beer style tea
- Joint & vitality blend
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Indigenous Mesoamerican Traditions
Vitality, joint, and 'blood-purifying' tonic; flavoring for root beer.
Modern Herbalism
Vitality and joint-comfort tonic tea.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Earthy, sweet, slightly bitter, woody
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Sarsaparilla has a long tradition as a vitality, joint, and digestive tonic. Clinical evidence is insufficient; preclinical work shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, but it is not a treatment for syphilis (historical), arthritis, or any disease.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026