History of Sarsaparila

In Mexico, sarsaparila was used by herbalists to treat rheumatism, cancer, skin diseases, and other conditions. At the turn of the 20th century, there were reports of its use by herbalists for the treatment of leprosy. Sarsaparila has also been used in various women’s health concerns and was said to have a progesterone-like effect.

Sarsaparila contains steroidal saponins, such as sarsasapogenin, which may mimic the action of some human hormones. There is no strong proof of such saying however. Sarsaparila also contains phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol, which may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of this herb. Reports have shown anti-inflammatory and liver-protecting effects for this herb. Similar reports on the effect of sarsaparila on psoriasis occur in early European literature.

Users of saraparila should be aware of its effect on the kidney as according to the German Commission E monograph, sarsaparila may cause stomach irritation and temporary kidney irritation. Sarsaparila should not be taken during pregnancy or breast feeding.

Sarsaparila for Skin Conditions

Sarsaparila is also known under other names such as Khao Yen, Sarsa, Smilace, Smilax, Smilax aristolochiifolia, Smilax officinalis, Smilax regelii, Smilax sarsaparilla.

Sarsaparila is sold in the U.S. as an oral remedy for psoriasis. It is said that chemicals in sarsaparila may attach to endotoxins (the remnants of bacterial cells) that are common in individuals with psoriasis and certain other conditions. By eliminating or reducing the amounts of endotoxins in the body, sarsaparila may be helpful.

A little history of Sarsaparila use. It is said that many shamans and medicine men in the Amazon use Sarsaparila root internally and externally for leprosy and other skin problems such as psoriasis and dermatitis. Leprosy can be common in areas where the disease is carried by armadillos Sarsaparila root also was used as a general tonic by indigenous tribes in South America, where New World traders found it and introduced it into European medicine in the 1400s.

Another benefit of Sarsaparila is that it gets rid of excess water from the body and is also a laxative, thereby also helpful for individuals with mild constipation. Saraparila may also promote sweating, which may help to reduce fever. Additionally, Sarsaparila contains chemicals that may act as a mild expectorant, a substance that may loosen bronchial mucus and promote coughing. Note that none of these effects has been verified through clinical studies and they may vary greatly depending on the amounts and type of Sarsaparila used.