Sarsaparilla is a woody, tropical vine that’s found in Mexico, South America, Jamaica, the Caribbean, Honduras, and the West Indies. It comes in several different forms that are all known by the botanical name Smilax. Its other common names include Liseron epineux, Liseron piquant, Salsaparilha, Zarzaparrilla, Khao yern, and Jupicanga, among others.
Sarsaparilla contains a wealth of plant chemicals thought to have a beneficial effect on the human body.
To prepare sarsaparilla tea, simmer 1–4 g of dried sarsaparilla in 8–12 oz of water for 5–10 minutes.
False ingredientsDon’t confuse sarsaparilla with Indian sarsaparilla, Hemidesmus indicus. The Indian sarsaparilla is sometimes used in sarsaparilla preparations but doesn’t have the same active chemicals of the sarsaparilla in the Smilax genus.
Sarsaparilla is generally considered a safe supplement with few side effects. High doses may result in stomach upset. An allergic reaction is possible.
Because it's a diuretic and increases urine output, it is best not to take sarsaparilla while you're dehydrated.
There is no data on sarsaparilla’s safety for pregnancy or breastfeeding, so the recommendation is usually to avoid it during these times.
Allergen Statement
Bush Doctor 2019 Ltd supplies a range of products that are internationally sourced from approved suppliers. Information is gathered from all suppliers to enhance knowledge of the product and supplier handling procedures.
The following products which are or contain allergens may be handled by approved suppliers on behalf of Bush Doctor 2019 Ltd; Cereals containing gluten (wheat, rye, barley, oats, spelt, kamut and their hybrid strains), Peanuts, Soybeans, Nuts, Celery, Mustard, Milk and dairy products, Sesame seeds, Products containing sulphur dioxide and sulphites at concentrations of more than 10mg/kg or 10mg/litre expressed as sulphur dioxide.
Handling procedures are in place to reduce the likelihood of allergens being present, however no guarantees are given that our ingredients are totally free of traces in the products supplied.
Disclaimer
You should always read the label before consuming or using the product and never rely solely on the information presented here.