Used as an infusion, decoction, extract and tincture.

The dried roots of certain South and Central American Smilax species are the source of sarsaparilla, which has been used medicinally, but is now used mainly in confectionary and soft drinks.

The starch-rich root can be dried and ground into a powder that is used in making cakes, puddings, sweet drinks, jelly and soups. Genuine root beer is made from the roots. Sarsaparilla's saponins facilitate the body's absorption of other drugs and phytochemicals. The saponins are used by the body to synthesize hormones. Sarsaparilla has a noticeable aphrodisiac effect, thus explaining the popularity of old-time root beer in the saloons.

Sarsaparilla is a medicinal herb of ancient Native American application. It has been used for sexual impotence, rheumatism, skin ailment, urinary problems and as a tonic for physical weakness.

It was shown clinically in 1942 to dramatically improve psoriasis. It is also useful for acne, rashes and hives. It's anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects have been shown in rats, and improvement of appetite and digestion as well as diuretic actions in humans has also been documented.

Sarsaparilla has demonstrated the ability to attack and neutralize microbes in the blood stream. In the 1950's, the antibiotic properties of sarsaparilla were documented. Its effective use as an adjuvant for the treatment of leprosy was documented in a human trial in 1959. Sarsaparilla was used by the Chinese in the treatment of syphilis. Recent clinical observations in China demonstrated that slow-acting sarsasparilla is effective, according to blood tests, in about 90% of acute cases and 50% of chronic cases.

Sarsaparilla is also known for stimulating the breathing of asthmatics and the congested.

'Jamaica Sarsaparilla was introduced in the middle of the sixteenth century as a remedy for syphilis, and later came to be used for other chronic diseases, specially rheumatism. It is a mild gastric irritant due to its saponin content.' 'The smoke of Sarsaparilla was recommended for asthma. It is also very useful as a tonic, alterative, diaphoretic and diuretic. Its active principle is a crystalline body, Parillin or Smilacin.'

'Dose of sarsaparilla, in powder, 20 grains, 3 or 4 times a day; of the infusion. Some believe sarsaparilla to contain an active cardiac-sedative principle.'

12,00z³