Smilax officinalis (Sarsparilla) Flashcards
How do you recognise Jamaican Sarsaparilla?
- The name derives from words meaning spiny vine: it is a perennial climbing plant with tendrils & heart shaped leaves.
- Native to Central America & West Indies.
- There are many species of Smilax – several of which are used medicinally. “Sarsaparilla” may not always be S. officinalis.
- Popular since the 1800’s in the form of wines and cordials.
What are Jamaican Sarsaparilla’s main constituents?
Constituents:
* Steroidal & glycosidal saponins – including parillin, sarsaporin, smilagenin & sarsaparilloside.
* Phytosterols
* Flavonoids.
* Resin.
The steroidal compounds have been described as being building blocks for human steroidal hormones, but this is disputed.
What family is Jamaican Sarsaparilla in?
Family: Smilacaceae.
What is Jamaican Sarsaparilla good for?
Summary: Bendle does not use this much but sometimes for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and eczema Especially psoriasis.
Actions:
* Alterative - ‘blood purifier’ or detoxifier like nettles and dandelions.
* Anti-inflammatory.
* Anti-rheumatic.
* Antimicrobial.
* Diuretic.
* Immunomodulator.
* Diaphoretic - makes you sweat.
Applications:
* Psoriasis.
* Eczema.
* Leprosy (in Central & South America).
* Rheumatoid arthritis.
Historically:
* As a general tonic
* To treat gonorrhoea & syphilis
* As an aphrodisiac
What is Jamaican Sarsaparilla’s Latin name?
Smilax officinalis
What parts of Jamaican Sarsaparilla do you use?
Part used: roots.
What safety issues might Jamaican Sarsaparilla have?
Considered safe
What useful research does Jamaican Sarsaparilla have?
There is very little useful information on sarsaparilla to be found.
The sarsaparilla page on The Tropical Plant Database - is perhaps the best collection of data currently on the web
What remedies might you use Jamaican Sarsaparilla in?
Dose 30ml/week 1:3 tincture. Sometimes Bendle uses with Mahonia for Psoriasis.
