Sarsaparilla

Identity

Common Name

Sarsaparilla

Scientific Name

Smilax officinalis

Botanical Family

Smilacaceae

Native Region

Central and South America, Caribbean

Cultivation Regions

Central America, South America, Caribbean, Mexico

Plant Parts Used

Root

Synonyms

Smilax, Jamaican Sarsaparilla, Honduran Sarsaparilla

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

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.

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 Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Earthy, sweet, slightly bitter, woody

Tea Information

Research Summary

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 reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources