Sarsaparilla

• Detoxification support
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant protection
• Hormonal balance

• Skin health
• Liver support
• Immune modulation
• Joint health
• Digestive health
• Blood purification
• Metabolic support
• Reproductive health

Sarsaparilla exerts its biological effects primarily through its rich content of steroidal saponins and other bioactive compounds that work through multiple pathways. The steroidal saponins, including sarsaponin, parillin, and smilagenin, have structural similarities to human steroid hormones and may interact with hormone receptors or influence hormone metabolism. These compounds can act as hormone precursors or modulators rather than directly providing hormones. Some saponins may function as competitive inhibitors for certain hormone receptors, potentially helping to balance excess hormonal activity.

Contrary to some marketing claims, sarsaparilla does not contain testosterone but may influence endogenous hormone production or metabolism through indirect mechanisms. The saponins in sarsaparilla demonstrate significant binding affinity for endotoxins (bacterial toxins), forming insoluble complexes that facilitate their elimination from the body. This binding action may explain sarsaparilla’s traditional use for ‘blood purification’ and skin conditions potentially related to endotoxin circulation. Sarsaparilla contains potent antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and plant sterols, that neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress at the cellular level.

These antioxidants help protect cellular DNA, proteins, and lipids from oxidative damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of sarsaparilla stem from multiple compounds that inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes involved in the inflammatory cascade, including cyclooxygenase (COX) and 5-lipoxygenase. This multi-target anti-inflammatory action may explain its traditional use for inflammatory conditions like rheumatism and skin disorders. Certain compounds in sarsaparilla support liver detoxification pathways, particularly phase II enzymes, enhancing the body’s natural detoxification processes.

This liver-supportive action may contribute to its traditional use for skin conditions and general detoxification. The plant contains immune-modulating polysaccharides that can enhance natural killer cell activity and macrophage function while regulating inflammatory cytokine production, supporting balanced immune function. Sarsaparilla’s astringent properties, due to its tannin content, may help tighten and tone tissues, potentially beneficial for digestive and skin health. Some research suggests antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi, which may contribute to its traditional use for skin infections and urinary tract health.

The plant’s diuretic properties may support kidney function and elimination of waste products, further enhancing its detoxification effects. Additionally, preliminary research suggests potential adaptogenic properties that help the body respond to various stressors, though this mechanism requires further investigation.

Dosage recommendations for sarsaparilla vary based on the form used and the intended purpose. For dried root powder, typical dosages range from 1-4 grams daily. For liquid extracts (1:1), 2-4 ml taken 1-3 times daily is common. Standardized extracts are typically used at 400-500 mg, 2-3 times daily. Traditional decoctions involve simmering 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) of dried root in 8 ounces of water for 15-30 minutes, consumed 2-3 times daily.

For general health support, sarsaparilla can be taken with or without food, though taking with food may reduce potential digestive discomfort. For detoxification purposes, taking between meals or on an empty stomach may enhance effects. For skin conditions, consistent daily use is more important than specific timing. For digestive support, taking 15-30 minutes before meals is typically recommended.

When used as a decoction (tea), allowing to cool slightly before drinking may preserve more of the volatile compounds.

Cycling is not strictly necessary for sarsaparilla, but for long-term use, some practitioners recommend a pattern of 6-8 weeks on, followed by a 2-week break. This approach may help prevent potential adaptation and allow assessment of effects. For acute conditions, continuous use until symptoms improve is common practice.

For those new to sarsaparilla, starting with approximately 50% of the target dose for the first week and gradually increasing over 2-3 weeks can help minimize potential digestive adjustment and allow assessment of individual tolerance. This is particularly important for those with sensitive digestion or when using higher doses for therapeutic purposes.

The bioavailability of sarsaparilla’s active compounds varies significantly based on the specific compounds, extraction method, and individual digestive factors. Saponins, the primary active compounds, generally have moderate oral bioavailability (estimated at 15-30%) due to their large molecular size and potential for degradation in the digestive tract. However, some saponins may be metabolized by gut bacteria into more bioavailable metabolites. Water-soluble compounds in sarsaparilla, including certain flavonoids and polysaccharides, typically have bioavailability ranging from 20-50% depending on the specific compound and individual digestive health.

Fat-soluble components, including some sterols and terpenes, have variable absorption rates ranging from 10-40%, with absorption enhanced when taken with dietary fat. Traditional preparation methods, particularly decoctions (simmering in water) and alcohol-based extractions, appear to enhance the extraction and potential bioavailability of active compounds compared to simple powdered root.

Alcohol-based extraction (tinctures) improves the extraction and potential bioavailability of both water-soluble and fat-soluble compounds, Hot water extraction (decoctions) enhances the extraction of water-soluble compounds and may break down complex structures for improved absorption, Taking fat-soluble extracts with a small amount of healthy fat may enhance absorption of sterols and other fat-soluble components, Combining with black pepper extract (piperine) may enhance absorption of certain compounds through inhibition of metabolic enzymes, Micronization (reducing particle size) increases surface area and may improve absorption, Standardized extracts typically offer more consistent bioavailability of target compounds compared to whole root powder, Liposomal delivery systems, though less common for sarsaparilla, can significantly improve bioavailability of both water-soluble and fat-soluble components, Fermentation processes may enhance bioavailability through pre-digestion of complex compounds

For optimal absorption of water-soluble compounds, taking sarsaparilla on an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals may be beneficial. However, for enhanced absorption of fat-soluble components, taking with a small amount of healthy fat is recommended. For digestive support, taking 15-30 minutes before meals is typically recommended. For detoxification purposes, taking between meals may enhance effects by allowing more direct contact with the intestinal mucosa.

When used as a decoction (tea), sipping slowly throughout the day may provide more consistent blood levels of active compounds.

Alcohol-based tinctures generally show superior extraction and potential bioavailability of a broader spectrum of compounds compared to water-based preparations or simple powdered root. Traditional decoctions (simmering in water for 15-30 minutes) demonstrate better extraction of water-soluble compounds compared to simple infusions (steeping in hot water). Standardized extracts offer more consistent levels of specific active compounds compared to whole root preparations, though they may lack the full spectrum of compounds found in whole root. Capsules containing powdered root generally have lower bioavailability than liquid preparations unless specifically formulated with absorption enhancers.

Modern liposomal or phytosomal formulations, though less common for sarsaparilla, may offer significantly enhanced bioavailability compared to conventional preparations.

• Digestive discomfort (mild nausea, bloating, or upset stomach)
• Temporary increase in urination (due to mild diuretic effect)
• Allergic reactions (rare, but possible, particularly in those with allergies to plants in the Liliaceae family)
• Skin irritation (with topical use in sensitive individuals)
• Temporary worsening of skin conditions before improvement (potential detoxification reaction)
• Mild headache (rare, typically with higher doses)
• Contact dermatitis (when handling raw root in sensitive individuals)

• Known allergy to sarsaparilla or plants in the Liliaceae family
• Kidney disease (due to potential oxalate content and diuretic effects)
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
• Hormone-sensitive conditions including certain cancers (theoretical concern due to potential hormonal effects)
• Kidney stones (oxalate content may exacerbate in susceptible individuals)
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2 weeks before due to potential effects on blood glucose and potential mild anticoagulant effects)
• Asthma (rare reports of exacerbation in sensitive individuals)

• Diuretic medications (potential additive effect)
• Antidiabetic medications (potential mild hypoglycemic effect requiring monitoring)
• Hormone therapies (theoretical interaction due to potential hormonal effects)
• Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications (theoretical mild additive effect)
• Digoxin and other medications affected by potassium levels (due to diuretic effect)
• Lithium (diuretic effect may increase lithium concentration)
• Medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes (potential mild interactions)

No official upper limit has been established for sarsaparilla supplements. For dried root, doses up to 4-5 grams daily have been used traditionally without significant reported adverse effects in healthy adults. For standardized extracts, up to 1,500 mg daily divided into 2-3 doses appears to be well-tolerated. For tinctures, up to 4-5 ml three times daily has been used in traditional practice.

However, conservative upper limits of 4 grams daily for dried root and 1,200 mg daily for standardized extracts are generally recommended for long-term use due to limited long-term safety data.

Pregnancy And Breastfeeding: Sarsaparilla is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data and potential hormonal effects.

Children: Limited data on safety in children. Conservative dosing based on weight (approximately 25-50% of adult dose) is sometimes used by traditional practitioners for older children, but only under qualified healthcare provider supervision.

Elderly: Generally well-tolerated in elderly populations, but start with lower doses and monitor for potential interactions with medications common in this age group. Diuretic effects may require monitoring in those with cardiovascular concerns.

Liver Disease: Limited data on safety in liver disease. Theoretical benefit due to detoxification support, but caution is advised, particularly with concentrated extracts.

Kidney Disease: Not recommended for those with kidney disease due to potential oxalate content and diuretic effects that may stress compromised kidneys.

Autoimmune Conditions: Theoretical concern due to immune-modulating properties. Some traditional uses suggest potential benefit for certain autoimmune conditions, but individual responses may vary. Use with caution and medical supervision.

Quality and sourcing are significant concerns with sarsaparilla products. Potential for misidentification or adulteration with other Smilax species or even unrelated plants is common. Sustainable harvesting is a concern as wild populations have been depleted in some regions. Potential contamination with pesticides, heavy metals, or microbial contaminants is possible, particularly with products harvested from areas with environmental pollution.

Standardization varies widely between products, with some containing specified levels of saponins while others are simply raw root powder. Third-party testing is recommended to ensure purity, potency, and correct species identification.

Long-term safety data from clinical trials is limited, particularly beyond 3-6 months of use. Traditional use suggests good tolerability for extended periods when used appropriately, but modern concentrated extracts may have different long-term effects. Theoretical concerns with long-term use include potential effects on kidney function due to oxalate content and diuretic properties, though clinical significance is unclear. Periodic breaks from supplementation may be prudent for those using sarsaparilla long-term.

Sarsaparilla is regulated as a dietary supplement in the United States under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. It is not approved to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Manufacturers must ensure product safety and are prohibited from making specific disease claims. The FDA does not review or approve sarsaparilla supplements before they enter the market but can take action against unsafe products or those making unsubstantiated health claims.

Sarsaparilla is also listed by the FDA as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as a flavoring agent in food and beverages, reflecting its long history in traditional root beer and other products.

Eu: In the European Union, sarsaparilla is regulated primarily as a food supplement under the Food Supplements Directive (2002/46/EC). Products must comply with general food safety regulations and specific supplement regulations regarding maximum/minimum doses, purity criteria, and labeling requirements. Health claims are strictly regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 and must be scientifically substantiated and pre-approved. Sarsaparilla is also approved as a food flavoring in the EU.

Canada: Health Canada regulates sarsaparilla as a Natural Health Product (NHP). Products require a Natural Product Number (NPN) before marketing, which involves assessment of safety, efficacy, and quality. Health Canada’s Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists sarsaparilla with approved traditional uses for skin conditions and as a diaphoretic (promotes sweating).

Australia: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates sarsaparilla as a complementary medicine. Products must be included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) before marketing. Claims are limited to general health maintenance and traditional uses unless specific evidence is provided for stronger claims.

China: In China, related Smilax species (particularly Smilax glabra and Smilax china) are included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia as traditional medicines with established uses and quality standards.

Uk: Post-Brexit, the UK maintains regulations similar to the EU framework, with sarsaparilla regulated as a food supplement. The Food Standards Agency oversees safety and labeling compliance.

India: In India, sarsaparilla is regulated under AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) regulatory frameworks when used in traditional formulations, and as a food supplement when marketed as such.

Labeling Requirements: Must include standard supplement facts panel, ingredient list, and species identification. Cannot make disease treatment or prevention claims in most jurisdictions without appropriate drug/medicine registration. Claims related to ‘blood purification’ or specific hormonal effects are particularly scrutinized in most markets.

Testing Requirements: While specific testing is not universally mandated, responsible manufacturers conduct testing for species identification, saponin content, microbial contamination, heavy metals, and pesticide residues. Some jurisdictions have specific limits for certain contaminants in botanical products.

Import Export Considerations: Cross-border trade of sarsaparilla products may face additional scrutiny due to concerns about sustainable harvesting and species identification. Some countries restrict import of certain botanical products based on conservation concerns or agricultural protection policies.

The primary regulatory controversies surrounding sarsaparilla relate to marketing claims regarding its ‘blood purifying’ and hormonal effects. In the US and most other markets, claims suggesting specific therapeutic effects would require drug approval, yet products are often marketed with implied benefits through careful wording. Another area of regulatory concern is the potential for misidentification or adulteration with other Smilax species or even unrelated plants, as proper botanical identification is crucial for safety and efficacy.

Sustainability concerns have also led to increased scrutiny of sourcing practices, with some conservation organizations monitoring trade in wild-harvested species.

No significant recent regulatory changes

specifically targeting sarsaparilla have occurred in major markets.

However , general trends toward increased scrutiny of supplement quality, enhanced requirements for supply chain transparency, and stricter enforcement of health claim regulations affect all botanical supplements including sarsaparilla products. In some regions, particularly Central and South America,

there have been increased efforts to regulate wild harvesting of medicinal plants including Smilax species to ensure sustainability.

Sarsaparilla is available without prescription as an over-the-counter supplement globally. In some traditional medicine systems, particularly Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, formulations containing Smilax species may be prescribed by licensed practitioners, though the regulatory framework for such prescriptions varies by country.

Low to Medium

Vs Conventional Treatments For Skin Conditions: Sarsaparilla is typically 70-90% less expensive than prescription medications for psoriasis and other skin conditions, though potentially less effective for severe cases. Compared to over-the-counter topical treatments, the cost is similar or lower, with the advantage of addressing potential systemic causes.

Vs Other Herbal Detoxifiers: Sarsaparilla is generally comparable in price to other detoxifying herbs like burdock root and yellow dock, slightly less expensive than milk thistle, and significantly less expensive than specialized detox formulations.

Vs Anti Inflammatory Supplements: Sarsaparilla is typically 30-50% less expensive than turmeric/curcumin supplements and significantly less expensive than specialized anti-inflammatory formulations, though it may have milder effects.

Vs Hormonal Support Supplements: Sarsaparilla is generally 40-60% less expensive than specialized hormonal support supplements like maca or tribulus, though its hormonal effects are milder and less directly targeted.

Sarsaparilla offers good cost efficiency for its primary traditional applications, particularly skin conditions and general detoxification support. The cost-benefit ratio is most favorable for mild to moderate skin conditions with potential inflammatory or toxicity components, where its multi-faceted approach (anti-inflammatory, binding of toxins, potential hormonal modulation) provides comprehensive support at a relatively low cost. For detoxification support, sarsaparilla’s binding of endotoxins and support for elimination pathways offers good value, particularly when combined with complementary herbs in a comprehensive approach. The premium paid for organic certification and sustainable harvesting is generally justified by reduced contaminant risk and environmental benefits, particularly important for an herb used for detoxification purposes.

For standardized extracts, the higher cost typically correlates with more consistent potency and potentially enhanced effectiveness, justifying the premium for those seeking more predictable results. The relatively low cost of basic sarsaparilla powder makes it accessible for long-term use, which is often necessary for chronic skin conditions and ongoing detoxification support.

Purchasing in bulk (250g-1kg containers) can reduce cost by 30-50% compared to smaller packages, Making home decoctions from dried root is significantly less expensive than pre-made liquid extracts or capsules, Combining with synergistic herbs like burdock root or yellow dock may improve overall outcomes while allowing for lower doses of each individual herb, Subscription services offered by many supplement companies typically provide 10-15% savings, Seasonal or promotional discounts of 15-40% are common in the supplement industry, For skin conditions, alternating between internal use and external application as a wash may provide more comprehensive benefits at a lower cost

When evaluating long-term cost efficiency, consideration should be given to the gentle, supportive nature of sarsaparilla compared to more aggressive treatments. For chronic conditions like psoriasis or ongoing detoxification needs, the moderate cost of long-term use may be offset by reduced need for more expensive interventions. The sustainability of wild-harvested sarsaparilla is a growing concern, potentially affecting future pricing and availability. Supporting companies that engage in cultivation or sustainable harvesting practices may represent better long-term value despite potentially higher initial costs.

For conditions requiring extended use, cycling protocols (periods of use alternated with breaks) may improve both cost efficiency and long-term effectiveness.

The market for sarsaparilla has seen modest growth of 3-7% annually in recent years, primarily driven by increasing interest in traditional botanical medicines and natural approaches to skin health and detoxification. This growth has led to increased competition and more options at various price points. Sustainability concerns have begun to influence the market, with premium placed on responsibly sourced material. The trend toward standardized extracts with guaranteed saponin content represents a shift toward more consistent products, though at higher price points.

Direct-to-consumer brands have disrupted traditional retail channels, often offering better value through reduced supply chain costs.

Properly processed and stored sarsaparilla root powder typically has a shelf life of 2-3 years from date of manufacture. Liquid extracts and tinctures generally have a shelf life of 2-5 years, with alcohol-based preparations having longer stability than glycerin-based ones. Standardized extracts in capsule or tablet form typically maintain potency for 2-3 years when stored properly.

Temperature: Store at cool room temperature (59-77°F or 15-25°C). Avoid exposure to temperatures exceeding 86°F (30°C) as this can accelerate degradation of bioactive compounds, particularly saponins and flavonoids. Refrigeration is not necessary but may extend shelf life of liquid preparations after opening.

Humidity: Keep in a dry environment with relative humidity below 60%. Moisture exposure can lead to degradation of compounds, potential microbial growth, and clumping of powder formulations.

Light: Store in opaque containers or away from direct light, as certain compounds in sarsaparilla (particularly flavonoids and other phenolic compounds) are light-sensitive and can degrade with prolonged exposure.

Container Type: Amber glass bottles provide optimal protection for liquid preparations and powders. If packaged in plastic, HDPE (high-density polyethylene) with desiccant packets is preferred for powders. Miron violet glass offers superior protection for premium products.

Sealing: Airtight containers with moisture-resistant seals help maintain potency. Once opened, ensure container is tightly resealed after each use. Consider transferring to smaller containers as product is used to minimize air exposure.

Exposure to oxygen (oxidation affects flavonoids, saponins, and other compounds), Moisture (promotes enzymatic breakdown, microbial growth, and clumping), Heat (accelerates chemical reactions and degradation of thermolabile compounds), Light exposure (particularly damaging to flavonoids and colored compounds), Microbial contamination (if product becomes exposed to moisture), Enzymatic activity (if not properly deactivated during processing)

Saponins: Moderately stable in properly stored products; can degrade with exposure to moisture, heat, and prolonged storage. Typically retain 70-85% potency through shelf life.

Flavonoids: More susceptible to degradation from light, heat, and oxygen exposure. May retain only 60-80% potency through shelf life depending on storage conditions.

Phenolic Compounds: Variable stability; some are relatively stable while others degrade more readily with exposure to oxygen and light. Generally retain 65-85% potency through shelf life under proper storage conditions.

Essential Oils: Highly volatile and susceptible to evaporation and oxidation. May retain only 50-70% of original composition after prolonged storage, particularly in powder forms.

Minerals: Highly stable components that maintain levels well throughout shelf life, typically >95% retention.

Change in color (typically darkening from light brown to darker brown), Development of off odors (musty or sour smells indicate degradation), Loss of characteristic aromatic smell (indicates volatile compound degradation), Clumping or caking of powder formulations (indicates moisture exposure), Visible mold growth (rare but possible with significant moisture exposure), Capsules becoming soft, sticky, or discolored, Tinctures becoming cloudy or developing unusual sediment

For travel, maintain in original container when possible. For extended trips, consider transferring only needed amount to a smaller airtight container. Avoid leaving in hot vehicles or exposing to temperature extremes during travel. Tinctures generally have better stability during travel than powder forms. Pre-measured capsules offer convenient and stable options for travel.

Standardized extracts typically have better stability of target compounds compared to whole root powder. Alcohol-based extracts (tinctures) generally have better stability than water-based preparations due to the preservative effect of alcohol. Some premium products utilize natural antioxidants like rosemary extract or vitamin E to enhance stability of oxidation-prone components. Vacuum-sealed packaging significantly extends shelf life by minimizing oxygen exposure.

Synthesis Methods

Natural Sources

Processing Methods

Quality Considerations

Geographical Considerations

Sustainability Considerations

Adulteration Concerns

Sarsaparilla has a rich and diverse history of medicinal use spanning multiple continents and cultural traditions. Indigenous peoples of Central and South America were the first to discover the medicinal properties of various Smilax species, with archaeological evidence suggesting use dating back at least 3,000 years. Native tribes, including the Maya, Aztec, and numerous Amazonian groups, utilized sarsaparilla for skin conditions, joint pain, digestive disorders, and as a general tonic for strength and vitality. When Spanish explorers arrived in the Americas in the 16th century, they quickly adopted sarsaparilla from indigenous healers and introduced it to European medicine.

By the mid-16th century, sarsaparilla had become highly valued in Europe, initially gaining fame as a treatment for syphilis. While modern science has disproven its effectiveness against syphilis, this historical use led to its widespread adoption in European pharmacopoeias. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, sarsaparilla was one of the most important medicinal plants imported from the New World to Europe, prescribed for a wide range of conditions including skin diseases, rheumatism, gout, digestive disorders, and as a general ‘blood purifier.’ In traditional Chinese medicine, related species (particularly Smilax glabra and Smilax china, known as Tu Fu Ling and Jin Gang Teng respectively) have been used for over 2,000 years. Chinese medical texts describe their use for removing ‘dampness,’ treating joint pain, skin conditions, and supporting detoxification.

In the 19th century, sarsaparilla reached the height of its popularity in Western medicine and was included in the United States Pharmacopeia from 1820 to 1910. During this period, it was a common ingredient in patent medicines and ‘blood tonics’ claimed to treat everything from skin diseases to reproductive disorders. Sarsaparilla also became a popular flavoring agent for beverages, most famously in traditional root beer, which originally contained sarsaparilla, sassafras, and other medicinal roots. The temperance movement embraced these non-alcoholic root beverages as healthful alternatives to alcohol.

In traditional Caribbean and African diasporic healing traditions, sarsaparilla was incorporated as both medicine and ritual material, often used for purification and spiritual cleansing as well as physical healing. By the early 20th century, with the rise of pharmaceutical medicine, sarsaparilla’s medical use declined in conventional Western practice, though it remained important in various traditional medicine systems worldwide. The mid-to-late 20th century saw renewed interest in sarsaparilla as part of the broader revival of herbal medicine, with research beginning to investigate the scientific basis for its traditional uses. Contemporary use spans from traditional applications in various cultural healing systems to modern supplement formulations targeting specific health concerns, particularly skin conditions, inflammatory disorders, and hormonal balance.

Scientific evidence for sarsaparilla is limited, with relatively few modern clinical trials

specifically evaluating its effects in humans. Most evidence comes from traditional use, in vitro studies, animal research, and the known properties of its constituent compounds. The strongest evidence supports its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,

while evidence for hormonal effects and specific therapeutic applications is primarily based on preliminary research and traditional use. Historical use across multiple traditional medicine systems provides empirical evidence for various applications, but modern, well-designed human studies are lacking for most claimed benefits.

No formal meta-analyses specifically on sarsaparilla supplements have been published in peer-reviewed literature.

Limited information available on ongoing clinical trials specifically focused on sarsaparilla. Some broader studies on botanical medicines for inflammatory skin conditions and autoimmune disorders may include sarsaparilla as part of combination formulations.

Sarsaparilla has been used medicinally for centuries across multiple traditional medicine systems. Native American tribes, particularly in Central and South America, used various Smilax species for skin conditions, joint pain, and as a general tonic. European explorers adopted its use in the 16th century, and

it became popular in European medicine during the 16th-19th centuries, particularly for skin conditions and as a ‘blood purifier.’ Traditional Chinese Medicine has used related Smilax species (Tu Fu Ling) for similar purposes for over 2,000 years. Historical medical texts document its use for conditions now recognized as related to inflammation, infection, and hormonal imbalances.

Traditional uses of sarsaparilla span multiple cultures and medical systems. In traditional North and South American medicine,

it was used for skin conditions (particularly psoriasis and eczema), rheumatism, digestive disorders, and as a general tonic. European traditional medicine adopted

it primarily for skin diseases, syphilis (though modern evidence does not support

this use), rheumatism, and as a ‘blood purifier.’ Traditional Chinese Medicine used related Smilax species for ‘dampness’ conditions (associated with inflammation and fluid retention), skin disorders, and joint pain. Traditional Caribbean and African diasporic medicine incorporated sarsaparilla for similar purposes, often as part of complex formulations.

Laboratory studies provide moderate evidence for several mechanisms of action. Anti-inflammatory effects have been demonstrated in multiple in vitro and animal studies, with identified mechanisms including inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. Antioxidant activity has been well-documented through various assays. Binding of saponins to endotoxins has been demonstrated in laboratory studies, providing a potential mechanism for ‘blood purification’ effects.

Antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria and fungi have been confirmed in vitro. The structural similarity of certain steroidal saponins to human hormones provides a plausible mechanism for potential hormonal effects, though direct evidence in humans is limited.

Significant research gaps include a lack of well-designed human clinical trials for most claimed benefits. Optimal dosing, long-term safety and efficacy, comparative effectiveness between different Smilax species, and standardization methods all require further research. The bioavailability of specific compounds and their metabolic fate in humans is poorly understood. More research is needed on potential interactions with medications and specific health conditions.

Claims regarding hormonal effects require particular attention, as marketing claims often exceed the available evidence.