Sarsaparilla

Historical Uses:
Smilax, particularly sarsaparilla, has a long history in traditional medicine, especially in Central and South America, where it was used by indigenous people to purify the blood, treat venereal diseases, and support skin health. It was also used as a tonic to enhance strength and vitality, particularly for men’s health. Sarsaparilla made its way to Europe during the 16th century and became a popular remedy for treating syphilis and gout.

Current Uses:

Detoxification: Smilax is often used as a blood purifier, helping to detoxify the body and clear toxins from the bloodstream.
Skin health: The herb is commonly used to address skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, with its ability to reduce inflammation and clear toxins.
Joint support: Smilax has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for arthritis and rheumatism by easing pain and swelling in the joints.
Hormonal balance: Traditionally used to balance hormones, particularly in men, Smilax has been thought to boost testosterone levels and improve sexual health.
Digestive health: The root has mild laxative properties and can stimulate digestion, helping to relieve constipation and digestive discomfort.
Immune support: Rich in antioxidants and saponins, Smilax helps to boost the immune system and protect the body from infections.

Cautions

Toxicity: High doses of Smilax may cause gastrointestinal upset and irritation. Long-term use can lead to ulceration of the gastrointestinal mucosa and may cause temporary kidney impairment.

Contraindications: None Reported

Interactions: Smilax may increase the absorption and/or metabolism of certain medications, potentially altering their effectiveness. Use caution when combining with hormonal therapies or steroid medications, as it may influence their action.

Known Chemical Constituents

Steroidal & Glycosidal saponins: Parillin, sarsaponin, smilagenin, sarasapogenin, sarasaparilloside – these compounds contribute to Smilax’s anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and detoxifying effects.
Phytosterols: Beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol – support hormonal balance and cardiovascular health.
Flavonoids: Flavanonol rhamnosides, quercetin, kaempferol – provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping with detoxification and skin health.
Oxalic acid: Known for its ability to bind minerals and its cleansing effect on the body.
Fatty acids: Contribute to the nourishing and tonic properties of Smilax.
Resin: Adds to the cleansing and detoxifying actions, particularly for the skin and respiratory system.
Minerals: Iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and iodine – essential for blood-building, thyroid health, and overall vitality.

Botanical Description

Habitat: Smilax species are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, thriving in forests, woodlands, and along the edges of rivers and wetlands. They prefer well-drained soil and can grow in shaded or semi-shaded areas.
Leaves: Broad, heart-shaped, or ovate leaves with prominent veins, growing alternately along the stems. The leaves are leathery, dark green, and often have a shiny surface.
Stems: Smilax is a woody, climbing vine with sharp, thorny spines along the stems, which allow it to scramble over other plants. The stems are green and flexible when young, becoming more rigid and brown as they age.
Flowers: Small, inconspicuous flowers that grow in clusters, typically white or greenish in color, appearing in the spring. They are often pollinated by insects.
Roots: The rhizomes are thick and extensive, spreading underground. These roots are the primary part used medicinally, prized for their blood-purifying properties.

Fun Facts

Smilax, often referred to as sarsaparilla, was once a key ingredient in the original root beer recipes in the 19th century! It was prized for its flavor and believed to have medicinal properties that purified the blood and boosted vitality.

Parts Used

Root, Leaves, Stem

Harvest

Timing: The roots of Smilax are typically harvested in autumn or early spring, when the plant’s energy is concentrated in the roots. This is the best time to collect the roots for their highest medicinal potency.
Method: Carefully dig up the thick, sprawling rhizomes, being mindful not to damage the plant. Once harvested, the roots can be washed thoroughly and dried for later use in teas, decoctions, tinctures, or powdered preparations.
Storage: Dried roots should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve their medicinal qualities. Properly dried Smilax roots can last up to a year when stored correctly. Fresh roots can also be used immediately, but drying extends shelf life and concentrates the medicinal compounds.

Preparations

Teas and Decoctions: The roots of Smilax are often decocted to create a blood-purifying tea that can support joint health, digestion, and skin conditions. Boil the roots gently for 15-20 minutes to extract the active compounds.

Tinctures: Smilax can be prepared as a tincture for blood purification, immune support, and detoxification. A tincture is especially useful for skin issues or joint pain.

Powders: The dried root can be ground into a powder and encapsulated for use as a tonic to support energy levels, hormonal balance, and immune function.

Topical Applications: Smilax is sometimes used in salves or poultices for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or wounds due to its anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects.

Sacred Rituals

For a ritual of purification and grounding, prepare a herbal bath using Smilax roots. Steep the dried roots in hot water for 20-30 minutes and add this infusion to your bathwater. As you soak, focus on releasing any negative energies or physical toxins, allowing the cleansing properties of Smilax to help restore your vitality and strengthen your connection to the earth.

Affirmations

“I release all that no longer serves me, cleansing my body, mind, and spirit. I am grounded, strong, and revitalized by the earth’s energy.”

Spiritual Associations

Smilax has long been used in shamanic rituals for purification and spiritual cleansing. Its deep-rooted nature is symbolic of connection to the earth and ancestral wisdom, making it an herb that can help clear both physical and energetic toxins.