Sarsaparilla is a woody high-climbing vine native to South America, Mexico, the West Indies and other tropical parts of the world. For centuries, the ancient indigenous people of Central and South America used sarsaparilla root to treat sexual dysfunction, rheumatism, skin aliments and other medical conditions. American physicians of the late 19th and early 20th centuries used it to treat syphilis. Today, herbalists value sarsaparilla for the plant steroids and saponins it contains, both which are believed to be significant contributors to the plant's health benefits.
Improves Skin Conditions
Sarsaparilla is considered effective in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne and leprosy. A 1942 study led by Dr. Francis Thurman and published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that sarsaparilla greatly benefited subjects with psoriasis. Psoriasis sufferers have high levels of endotoxins in their blood, which may contribute to the condition. Researchers believe that sarsaponin, one of the primary steroids in sarsaparilla, binds with the endotoxins and removes them from the bloodstream, ameliorating the condition and, in a few cases, completely resolved the problem.
Anti-Inflammatory
Sarsaparilla root may be beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. These diseases may range from respiratory disorders, such as bronchitis and bronchial asthma, to other inflammatory conditions such as rheumatism, arthritis and general joint pain. According to Raintree Nutrition, a clinical study showed that the oral consumption of sarsaparilla root reduced inflammation of artificially-induced arthritis in laboratory rats. However, no formal clinical trials have been conducted on humans.
Acts as a Diuretic
Sarsaparilla is believed to promote the loss of excess water from the body through either urine or sweat. This property helps the body to expel harmful toxins, relieve mild constipation, and help to reduce fever. Although many cultures used sarsaparilla as a diuretic for centuries, no scientific studies confirm its effectiveness.
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