Sarsaparilla

Sarsaparilla has been used through history as a cure for syphilis and other venereal diseases. Sarsaparilla was perhaps, the most widely used 19th century treatment for syphilis among cowboys in the frontier, while the North Americans Indians used sarsaparilla for healing skin conditions and urinary problems, and as a tonic for sustaining youth and sexual vigor.

Sarsaparilla is primarily a blood purifier, focusing most of its action in the colon. Sarsaparilla regulates colonic bacteria, absorbing the toxins produced by yeasts and other colonic bacteria and eliminating them from the bowel. Sarsaparilla also relieves the inflammation caused by the body’s reaction to such toxins. This may explain sarsaparilla’s history as a natural remedy for arthritis, gout, inflammatory bowel problems, jaundice, leukorrhea, prostatitis, rheumatism, and skin inflammations, such as boils, eczema, herpes outbreaks, psoriasis, and skin ulcers.

Studies show steroidal saponins in sarsaparilla demonstrate some antibiotic and antiseptic action, and are the basis for sarsaponin tablets, used effectively for numerous cases of psoriasis. The saponins also stimulate urine production, making sarsaparilla a natural diuretic for such problems as premenstrual water retention and bloating, congestive heart failure, and high blood pressure. Sarsaparilla’s anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties may indicate its use for treating impotence. Sarsaparilla also promotes perspiration and relaxes muscle spasms.

Sarsaparilla clearly provides hormonal effects which may enhance fertility in women with ovarian dysfunction. Sarsaparilla’s progesterogenic action helps relieve PMS symptoms, as well as debility and depression associated with menopause, while its tonic and definite testosterogenic actions on the body have been shown to promote muscle bulk and growth, increase libido, and even improve angina pectoris.

Two steroidal aglycones extracted from sarsaparilla—sarsapogenin and smilagenin—show possible use as precursors for synthesizing cortisone and other steroidal drugs.

Sarsaparilla is also recommended for colds, coughs, fevers, and gout.

Chinese studies suggest sarsaparilla may be helpful for leptospirosis—a rare disease transmitted to humans by rats. Chinese researchers have also found sarsaparilla useful for treating syphilis. Preliminary studies from different nations confirm the possible benefits of using sarsaparilla for leprosy and psoriasis. Researchers have also found the herb to demonstrate anti-tubercle bacillus activity in culture studies.

Sarsaparilla is a rich source of chromium, cobalt, iron and selenium, as well as vitamins A and D. Sarsaparilla also contains fairly high amounts of manganese and zinc.

Large amounts of sarsaparilla saponins can cause a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, as well as intestinal and stomach irritation.