Sarsaparilla Information
Most of us know sarsaparilla as the flavoring behind old-fashioned root beer. But what many people don't know is that it's the name of both a tree and an herb, and that both plants have quite a few properties beyond that refreshing soft drink that goes well with vanilla ice cream. Does this Spark an idea?
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What Is Sarsaparilla?
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Sarsaparilla is the name given to a vine of the Smilax genus, native to the rainforests of South America and the Caribbean. It is also the name of a tree of the Alphitonia genus, found mainly in Australia.
Interestingly, both are associated with root beer, although the vine, according to herbal website Raintree Nutrition, was used for its foaming properties, but not for flavor, as it is flavorless. It's the root of the tree that gives traditional root beer its unique taste.
Sarsaparilla, Smilax Genus
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Sarsaparilla of the Smilax genus comes from the Spanish "zarza," meaning bramble, and "parilla," meaning small vine. This prickly vine, a member of the lily family, can climb up into the rainforest canopy or be cultivated to form thickets.
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Uses of Smilax
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The root is the part of the plant used for medicinal purposes. It has a wide variety of uses in many places around the world where it is found and has been introduced, including China, Europe, the United States, Brazil and Argentina. Popularly sold in pill form or as a tonic, this version of sarsaparilla is used to treat skin infections, sexually transmitted diseases and inflammatory conditions. It is also used to detoxify, treat digestive disorders, PMS, and as a stimulant.
Because of its stimulant properties, however, and its ability to enhance the absorption of certain narcotics, sarsaparilla should be used carefully by those taking other drugs. Too much sarsaparilla can cause stomach upset.
Sarsaparilla, Alphitonia Genus
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Sarsaparilla of the Alphitonia genus is a tree, also known as the red ash, soap tree or sarsaparilla tree. It's a tree with family members in the Northern Hemisphere, as well as in Australia. Typically used as a shade tree or an ornamental, it features dark green, shiny leaves and small round fruit.
Uses of Alphitonia
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In Australia, the Alphitonia excelsa is used to revegetate barren landscapes. Native tribes use it as a fish poison and also as an antiseptic. It has been used to relieve headaches, sore eyes, upset stomachs and insect bites.
Perhaps the most popular worldwide use of the sarsaparilla tree is its root, used as a flavoring for root beer.
Alphitonia is generally not considered toxic to humans or animals, besides fish, but may cause allergies.
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