SARSAPARILLA: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews (2024)

Overview

Sarsaparilla is a group of plants that grow in tropical parts of the world. There are about 350 species, including Smilax officinalis and Smilax glabra.

Chemicals in sarsaparilla might help decrease pain and swelling. Some chemicals might also help kill cancer cells or slow down their growth.

People use sarsaparilla for cancer, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse sarsaparilla with German sarsaparilla. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for SARSAPARILLA overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Sarsaparilla is commonly consumed in foods. There isn't enough reliable information to know if sarsaparilla is safe to use in larger amounts as medicine. It might cause upset stomach when used in large amounts.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Sarsaparilla is commonly consumed in foods. There isn't enough reliable information to know if sarsaparilla is safe to use in larger amounts as medicine. It might cause upset stomach when used in large amounts.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if sarsaparilla is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Kidney disease: Sarsaparilla might make kidney disease worse. Avoid sarsaparilla if you have kidney problems.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Digoxin (Lanoxin) interacts with SARSAPARILLA

    Sarsaparilla can decrease potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can increase the side effects of digoxin. This can increase the risk of heart damage.

  • Lithium interacts with SARSAPARILLA

    Sarsaparilla might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking sarsaparilla might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects.

Dosing

Traditionally, sarsaparilla is brewed in a tea. As medicine, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of sarsaparilla might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

Next

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circ*mstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

SARSAPARILLA: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews (2024)

FAQs

What are the side effects of sarsaparilla supplement? ›

Sarsaparilla seems safe for most people when used as a medicine. It might cause stomach irritation, especially when used in larger amounts.

Who should not use sarsaparilla? ›

You should not take sarsaparilla if any of the following apply: Pregnant/breastfeeding: Due to the lack of evidence showing sarsaparilla as a safe supplement during pregnancy, you should avoid use. Kidney disease: Theoretically, sarsaparilla may make kidney disease worse.

Does sarsaparilla interact with any medications? ›

Digoxin (Lanoxin) interacts with SARSAPARILLA

Sarsaparilla can decrease potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can increase the side effects of digoxin. This can increase the risk of heart damage.

What does sarsaparilla do for the body? ›

Sarsaparilla contains a wealth of plant chemicals thought to have a beneficial effect on the human body. Chemicals known as saponins might help reduce joint pain and skin itching, and also kill bacteria. Other chemicals may be helpful in reducing inflammation and protecting the liver from damage.

Why was sarsaparilla banned? ›

Safrole was found to contribute to liver cancer in rats when given in high doses, and thus it and sassafras or sarsaparilla-containing products were banned.

When was sarsaparilla banned? ›

Sarsaparilla was made from the Sarsaparilla vine, while Root Beer, roots of the sassafras tree. These days, Root Beer recipes do not include sassafras as the plant has been found to cause serious health issues. The vine was banned by the American Food and Drug Administration for commercial food production in 1960.

How much sarsaparilla to take daily? ›

Dosage. The dose of dried root is 1–4 g, or one cup of tea, three times/day. The dose of liquid extract (1:1 in 20% alcohol or 10% glycerol) is 8–15 mL, three times/day.

Is sarsaparilla good for blood? ›

Sarsaparilla root works as a diuretic to rid the body of excess water by increasing urination. If you're looking to detoxify your body, the herb also works to eliminate toxins, purify your blood and improve kidney and liver health, reducing them from damage.

Is it safe to take sarsaparilla root? ›

Sarsaparilla appears to be generally safe but may cause stomach upset in some cases. People may take sarsaparilla in capsule or powdered form, or as a tea or tincture. People can check with a doctor before taking sarsaparilla, especially if they are pregnant or nursing.

What pairs well with sarsaparilla? ›

PAIRS WELL WITH: Delicious BBQ foods like baby back ribs, grilled chicken, pulled pork and brisket! The earthy flavor of our authentic sarsaparilla is a perfect complement to rich and spicy meats, while its light carbonation keeps your mouth feeling fresh.

Does sarsaparilla increase blood flow? ›

The sterols found in Sarsaparilla can also increase the male sex drive and have been shown to increase blood flow and boost sperm motility.

Is sarsaparilla good for immune system? ›

One of the most notable benefits of sarsaparilla root is its ability to support the immune system. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, sarsaparilla root helps strengthen the body's natural defenses against infections and illness.

Why did people drink sarsaparilla? ›

The Origins and Precursors of Sarsaparilla Pop

The people in those areas had been consuming sarsaparilla for centuries. They believed the root of the sarsaparilla plant had potent medicinal qualities and used the kind of sarsaparilla root tea they brewed to cure everything from impotence to flatulence.

Does sarsaparilla lower blood pressure? ›

7) Heart Health

High blood pressure is the leading cause of heart disease. Sarsaparilla extract lowered blood pressure in mice with metabolic syndrome. Additionally, flavonoids from sarsaparilla prevented heart cell swelling due to high blood pressure in cell-based studies [52, 53, 54].

Does sarsaparilla help balance hormones? ›

Hormonal Balance

Thus, Sarsaparilla helps to maintain proper levels of testosterone and progesterone which can help the hair to grow. It is also used by body builders as a natural steroid to promote muscle growth and mass.

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