Scientific name

Smilax officinalis

Family

Liliaceae

Origin

Central America (Mexico)

Synonyms

Sarsaparilla

Used Parts

Drug consisting of dried roots

Chemical constituents

• Steroidic saponins (smilagenin, sarsapogenin);
• Flavonoids;
• Polysaccharides.

Salsapariglia in Herbalist's Shop: Salsapariglia Properties

The sarsaparilla is used in diuretic, diaphoretic and depurative therapy.

Biological activity

As mentioned, diuretic, diaphoretic and purifying properties of the organism are ascribed to the sarsaparilla, but not only. In fact, this plant is also attributed anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic properties.

The aforementioned activities are mainly attributable to the steroidal saponins contained within the same plant.

However - although various sarsaparilla food supplements are available on the market - the use of this plant has not obtained official approval for any type of therapeutic indication.

Salsapariglia in folk medicine and in homeopathy

In folk medicine, the sarsaparilla roots are used for the treatment of different types of skin diseases, psoriasis, rheumatism and kidney disorders. Furthermore, the plant is used by traditional medicine as a diaphoretic and diuretic remedy.

The sarsaparilla is also used in homeopathic settings, where it can be found in the form of granules, drops and mother tincture.

Homeopathic medicine uses this plant in case of chronic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, itching and skin rash, rheumatism, inflammation of the kidneys and urinary tract, cystitis, prostatitis, renal colic and kidney stones.

The amount of homeopathic remedy to be taken can vary from one individual to another, also depending on the type of disorder that needs to be treated and according to the type of preparation and homeopathic dilution that is intended to be used.

Side effects

Irritation of the gastric mucosa may occur following the intake of sarsaparilla.

Contraindications

Avoid taking in case of hypersensitivity to one or more components.

Pharmacological Interactions

• interference, due to the addition of biological effects or reduction of intestinal absorption in the case of simultaneous use, with diuretics or digitatics.