sarsaparilla

Sarsaparilla is an ingredient within our iron fluorine mix which is present in Magnetic Iron Supplement blend and Sarsaparilla can also be found in our Pre-workout blend. Below you will find fascinating information about key benefits about this ingredient.

Native to South America and the Caribbean, sarsaparilla has been used to treat both joint and skin conditions in traditional medicine for centuries. Saponins kill bacteria while sarsaponin reduces the appearance of psoriasis. It also has anti-inflammatory powers and is often used as a synergist in herbal mixtures.

Deep in the heart of the rainforest canopy, a climbing vine grows by the name of sarsaparilla. Native to South America, the Caribbean, Mexico and the West Indies, sarsaparilla is also known as ‘smilax’, ‘sarsaparilla’, (saparna) and many other names across multiple cultures. Its flavour is similar to liquorice or vanilla. It’s related to root beer, which is a good indication of what it really tastes like!

The root of this plant of many names has been used by indigenous people for centuries to treat joint problems and skin conditions. It was even once thought to cure leprosy, due to its apparent blood-purifying powers.

Sarsaparilla contains chemicals named saponins, which kill bacteria but are also thought to soothe itching and joint pain. Studies have shown that sarsaponin, a chief steroid in sarsaparilla, binds and removes endotoxins that cause lesions on the skin of psoriasis sufferers. It also has very powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which make it an effective treatment for conditions such as arthritis and gout. There is also evidence that sarsaparilla can protect humans from cancer and liver damage.

Sarsaparilla is often used as a ‘synergist’ which means that it does a good job of increasing the body’s absorption of other herbs and ingredients. While this is great for the effectiveness of other health products, it can mean that sarsaparilla may interfere with other drugs. There is evidence that it certainly interacts with lanoxin and lithium and exposure to the root dust can bring on or exacerbate symptoms of asthma.

Key benefits

Key benefits of sarsaparilla include:

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Sarsaparilla contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as saponins and flavonoids. These components can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to various chronic conditions, including arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and skin disorders.

Antioxidant Activity: Sarsaparilla contains polyphenolic compounds that possess antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and can contribute to overall health and disease prevention.

Hormone-regulating Effects: Sarsaparilla has been used traditionally as a herbal remedy for hormone-related conditions. Some studies have suggested that sarsaparilla extracts can influence hormonal balance, particularly in relation to sex hormones.

Kidney Health: Sarsaparilla has been used traditionally to support kidney health and assist in the management of kidney-related conditions. Sarsaparilla extracts can have diuretic and detoxifying effects on the kidneys.

Liver Support: Sarsaparilla has traditionally been used to support liver health. Studies have shown that sarsaparilla extracts can help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins and oxidative stress.

Skin Health: Sarsaparilla has been used topically and orally for various skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema. Some studies suggest that sarsaparilla can have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can benefit certain skin conditions.

You should avoid sarsaparilla if you take any of the below medication

Avoid sarsaparilla if taking the following medications:

Diuretics: Sarsaparilla may have diuretic effects, increasing urine production. Combining it with diuretic medications could lead to excessive dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.

Lithium: Sarsaparilla may reduce lithium levels in the body, potentially decreasing its effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder. Monitor lithium levels closely if using sarsaparilla alongside lithium.

Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs: Sarsaparilla may have mild blood-thinning properties. Combining it with anticoagulant medications (e.g., warfarin, heparin) or antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel) could increase the risk of bleeding. Use caution and consult a healthcare provider.

Corticosteroids: Sarsaparilla may enhance the effects of corticosteroid medications, increasing the risk of side effects such as fluid retention, high blood pressure, or electrolyte imbalances.

Medications Metabolised by the Liver: Sarsaparilla may affect the liver's ability to metabolise certain medications. It could potentially increase or decrease the effectiveness of drugs metabolised by the liver. Consult a healthcare provider before combining sarsaparilla with such medications.

You should avoid sarsaparilla if you have any of the below allergen or medical condition

Individuals with the following allergies or medical conditions should use caution or avoid sarsaparilla:

Allergies to Plants in the Smilacaceae Family: Sarsaparilla belongs to the Smilacaceae family of plants. Individuals with known allergies to plants in this family, such as sarsaparilla, may experience allergic reactions, including skin irritation, itching, rash, or respiratory symptoms, upon exposure to sarsaparilla.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited information available regarding the safety of sarsaparilla during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before using sarsaparilla due to potential risks to the foetus or nursing infant.

Hormonal Disorders: Sarsaparilla contains compounds that may have hormonal effects. Individuals with hormonal disorders, such as oestrogen-sensitive conditions (e.g., breast cancer, uterine fibroids), should use sarsaparilla cautiously or avoid it due to its potential hormonal activity.

Kidney Disorders: Sarsaparilla may have diuretic effects, increasing urine production. Individuals with kidney disorders or impaired kidney function should use sarsaparilla cautiously to prevent dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.

Liver Disorders: Limited information is available regarding the effects of sarsaparilla on liver health. Individuals with liver disorders should use sarsaparilla cautiously and consult with a healthcare provider before use.

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or digestive upset when consuming sarsaparilla. People with digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), should use sarsaparilla cautiously and monitor for any adverse effects.