Sarsaparilla is a shrub found in Mediterranean forests whose properties have made it used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. Mainly, this plant stands out for its powerful diuretic effects and its digestive and cleansing properties. The purifying capacity sarsaparilla makes this plant an excellent home remedy for fluid retention and for the treatment of various rheumatic diseases, relieving pain and other symptoms. It is also effective in combating other conditions that we will see later, such as skin and urinary tract diseases.
If you want to know more about it, at OneHowTo we explain what the medicinal properties of sarsaparilla and what is this plant for?
Smilax aspera
Sarsaparilla, also known as dog grape, country bramble or blood thinner, is a shrub of the Smilacaceae family, despite the fact that it was formerly considered to belong to the Liliaceae. Its stems are thin and can measure up to two meters long, its leaves are petiolate, it has yellow flowers and contains small garnet-colored fruits. These fruits contain around 1 and 3 seeds and, contrary to what one might think, they are not used nor do they form the basis of the properties of sarsaparilla. In fact, sarsaparrila fruits are toxic, and if you consume them you can suffer from diarrhea and vomiting, in addition to resulting in a decrease in red blood cells as a result of the hemolytic properties.
Sarsaparilla’s health benefits are derived from its root, and have been used since ancient times due to its phytotherapeutic properties. There are different species of this plant, and not all have been used for medicinal purposes. Specifically, the species Smilax officinalis It was used as a remedy for sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis and gonorrhea.
Diuretic properties
Fluid retention
One of the main medicinal properties of sarsaparrila is its diuretic effect. This plant stands out for its ability to stimulate the expulsion of liquids, helping to prevent fluid retention. This can be especially useful for those people who are more prone to fluid accumulation and suffering discomfort. Sarsaparilla stimulates the production of urine and increases body sweat, so do not hesitate to use it as a home remedy to facilitate the expulsion of water from the body.
Rheumatic diseases
The same diuretic properties of sarsaparrila make this shrub can be used for relieve symptoms of rheumatic diseases, in which there are serous accumulations in the joints. With this, it is possible to reduce pain and facilitate the mobility of people who suffer from these types of conditions. Using this plant eliminates fluids and improves the symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. However, it is important to see a doctor if you suffer from any of these diseases, in order to keep track of them.
Urinary problems
In the case of suffering from urinary tract conditions, the medicinal properties of sarsaparrila can help as it is considered a plant with antiseptic effects, which together with ascorbic acid and zinc can help fight inflammation in the kidneys and treat kidney stones.
Purifying properties
Remove toxins
Another of the properties by which sarsaparilla is positive for health is its ability to purify the body of toxins. By stimulating the expulsion of fluids, this plant contributes to the elimination of waste that over time remains accumulated in the body, which can worsen health in large quantities. In this post we teach you how to eliminate toxins from the body. A toxin-free body means feeling better inside and out.
Sarsaparilla for weight loss
Although sarsaparilla is not used to lose weight directly, it does have effects that can help us, along with other requirements, to lose weight. This means that we are not going to lose weight just by taking sarsaparilla, but as it is a diuretic it helps to expel fluids and toxins and to feel less bloated. Likewise, it can also facilitate the expulsion of harmful substances that make it difficult to lose weight.
Good for acne
Sarsaparilla is a good home remedy for treat and fight acne. Its purifying properties make it a good treatment to keep the skin free of toxins. Therefore, it is effective in cases of acne, eczema or dermatitis. In addition, its antibacterial and antifungal properties also contribute to improve the above conditions.
Is sarsaparilla an aphrodisiac?
We may have heard about the aphrodisiac effects of sarsaparilla. The truth is that it is one of the plants to increase sexual desire that have been traditionally used, especially the Mexican sarsaparilla. For this you can carry out a decoction with sarsaparilla and a little licorice, mixing two tablespoons of each and taking a glass a day.
Sarsaparilla contraindications
It is important to remember that sarsaparilla fruits are toxic, and only the root is consumed. The consumption of this shrub is not recommended:
- In case of gastritis or irritable bowel.
- If you have stomach ulcers.
- During pregnancy or lactation period, as it can have abortive effects.
What happens if I eat a lot of sarsaparilla?
In case of taking sarsaparilla for a long period of time or in large doses, the following symptoms may be experienced:
- Irritation of the stomach lining.
- Dehydration
- Changes in blood pressure
How to take sarsaparilla
Consuming sarsaparilla is simple, we just have to get the root of this plant in herbalists or specialized establishments. The recommended daily dose is 2 grams.
- Sarsaparilla infusion. We boil water together with 2 grams of sarsaparilla for 15 minutes.
- Sarsaparilla extract. Sarsaparilla drops can be purchased at health food stores. In this case we can add 30 drops in a glass of water and drink.
This article is merely informative, at oneHOWTO we do not have the power to prescribe any medical treatment or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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