Description
Botanical: Smilax aristolochiaefolia (also known as Smilax medica)
Other common names: Gray Sarsaparilla, Mexican Sarsaparilla, Vera Cruz Sarsaparilla,
Equadorian Sarsaparilla, Shot Bush, Red-bearded Sarsaparilla, Brown Sarsaparilla, Smilax,
Jamaican Sarsaparilla, Honduran Sarsaparilla, Rabbit Root
Sarsaparilla has long been used as a blood purifier and tonic herb that boosts stamina and energy.
Although there is no definitive evidence, many body-builders strongly maintain that Sarsaparilla (or Smilax) helps to build muscle mass, while avoiding the harmful side effects of anabolic steroids. Sarsaparilla is considered a fine herbal tonic, an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, and Sarsaparilla may even act as an aphrodisiac. Perhaps this is the reason that the "Good Guys" of the Old West, who disdained whiskey in favor of Sarsaparilla, always seemed to have that extra edge.
Country of Origin: India
Beneficial Uses:
Sarsaparilla is considered to be a fine tonic and blood purifier that is said to attack and neutralize toxinsin the blood (including environmental poisons). In addition, the herb's diuretic and diaphoretic qualities also promote urination and sweating; and those actions are believed to further rid the body of toxins through bodily secretions. It may also help to cool the body and break intermittent fevers.
Bodybuilders claim that the natural steroidal glycosides in Sarsaparilla help to build muscle mass, while avoiding the harmful side effects of anabolic steroids, although there are no clinical results to prove this. Additionally, they maintain that use of the herb boosts energy and stamina, and eases the inflammatory conditions brought about by strenuous exercise.
Sarsaparilla is said to be a fine tonic and "alterative" herb, or agent that may favorably alter an unhealthy condition of the body with the tendency to restore normal bodily function. The herb is also thought to help keep the glandular system in balance.
Sarsaparilla is also commonly used in herbal preparations as a synergist. The saponins have been reported to facilitate the body's absorption of other drugs and phytochemicals, which accounts for its history of use in herbal formula as an agent for bioavailability and to enhance the power and effect of other herbs.
Contraindications:
Pregnant and nursing women should avoid Sarsaparilla. Large amounts of Sarsaparilla (many times the recommended dosage) may cause gastrointestinal irritation, and if that occurs, dosage should be reduced or stopped. People who take blood thinning medications (Coumadin, etc.) should not use Sarsaparilla, and other prescription medication should not be taken at the same time as Sarsaparilla, because the medicine may be absorbed or excreted more rapidly.
According to the German Commission E monograph, Sarsaparilla may cause stomach irritation and temporary kidney irritation. In general, it is recommended that people who take prescription drugs regularly should avoid its use. Men with prostate disorders should not use it, since it may increase testosterone production. Inhaling Sarsaparilla can make asthma worse in asthmatics.
