Mexican Sarsaparilla

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Smilax aristolochiaefolia, S. regelii, S. febrifuga, S. ornata
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Bark
Berries
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Resin (See Glossary)
Sarsasapogenin
Smilagenin
Starch
Stigmasterol
Volatile oils (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Depresses central nervous system. Irritates mucous membranes. Irritates gastrointestinal tract. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced.

Miscellaneous information:
Berries are edible. Berries, bark and other parts of plant are used to make the soft drink of the same name.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Relieves toothache. Increases sexual potency. Treats psoriasis. Temporarily relieves constipation.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated relatively safe when taken in appropriate quantities for
short periods of time.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS

None expected