Sarsaparilla 100 g, 50 g, 25 g

Sarsaparilla – 100 g ($16.99), 50 g ($10.99), 25 g ($7.99)

Benefits:

Since the 1500s, sarsaparilla has been used throughout the world to treat syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases. It has a reputation as a blood purifier and general tonic. Sarsaparilla is a sexual stimulant and wound healer. It is also used as a diuretic.

The natural steroidal glycosides found in sarsaparilla have made the herb popular with bodybuilders as an alternative to anabolic steroids for increasing muscle mass. Sarsaparilla also promotes good circulation, balances the glandular system, and stimulates the production of natural hormones. It has also been used for skin diseases, psoriasis, and rheumatic complaints. Homeopathic remedies are available for itching, skin rashes, rheumatism, and inflammation of the urinary organs. It has not been approved by the German Commission E because there is a lack of clinical efficacy documented. In addition, there are significant risks associated with its use, such as gastric irritation and temporary kidney impairment. The claims for rheumatism and gout for sarsaparilla have not been substantiated. However, other experts in herbal medicine disagree and believe that sarsaparilla is safe and does not cause gastric irritation.

Eczema and psoriasis. Conventional medicine has recognized sarsaparilla’s worth in treating skin conditions since the 1940s, when The New England Journal of Medicine published an article praising the usefulness of sarsaparilla in treating psoriasis. Although no research has been done to ascertain exactly how the herb works, there are numerous reports of its usefulness in treating eczema, psoriasis, and leprosy. Well-done clinical studies are lacking in these areas, however, and the German Commission E specifically states not to use sarsaparilla for psoriasis due to its side effects.

Urinary problems. Historically, sarsaparilla has been used for kidney problems. There is some evidence that it may work as a diuretic, reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs), and improve kidney function in patients with diabetic nephropathy. In a study of rats with kidney disease as a result of diabetes, those that received a substance from sarsaparilla called astilbin had improved urine flow.

Recommended Use

Sarsaparilla is available in capsules and fluid extracts. Tinctures of sarsaparilla are ineffective since the active chemical constituents of the herb are soluble in water but not in alcohol. It is also available as a tea.

Large doses of the saponins in sarsaparilla may cause gastrointestinal irritation. If this occurs, you should reduce the dosage or stop taking it.

The German Commission E advises that prescription drugs taken simultaneously with sarsaparilla may be absorbed or excreted more rapidly than when they are taken by themselves. For example, sarsaparilla increases the rate at which the body absorbs digitalis compounds such as digoxin (Lanoxicaps, Lanoxin) and increases the rate at which the body excretes tranquilizers such as the benzodiazepines, a class of medications that includes chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and diazepam (Valium). In general, people who take any prescription drugs regularly should avoid sarsaparilla. Because sarsaparilla may stimulate the production of testosterone, men with prostate disorders should avoid it as well. This herb should not be used by women who are pregnant or nursing.

Botanical Name: Hemidesmus indicus
English: Indian sarsaparilla
Ayurvedic: Shveta sariva, Gopasuta, Ananta
Also, known as: Shveta saarivaa, Sariva, Vaga, Anantamul, Upalsari, Namada veru, Anant mool, Nannari, Dralashvan lai anantmamool, Ushbah, Ven nannar, Sugandhi pala, Gopi, Kapuuri, Nannaari, Suganthipala, Gopaa, Gopasutaa, Sphotaa, Kabri, Naruneendi, Anantamula, Utipalsaarivaa, Dugdhgarbhaa, Gopavalli, Sphotaa, Nannar, Vaga sariva,
Habitat: Throughout India, Common in Bengal.
Origin: India
Harvested: Wild / Cultivated
Parts Used: Root

General Information:
The root of a Hemidesmus indicus aprostrate or semi-erect shrub found throughout India from upper Gangetic plains eastwards to Assam and southern India up to an elevation of 600 meters. Roots occur in pieces, about 30 cm long and 3-8 mm in diameter, cylindrical, thick, hard, somewhat tortuous, sparely branched, provided with few thick rootlets and secondary roots.
Hemidesmus indicus does not contain the same saponins or other principal constituents that are found in Sarsaparilla. External appearance dark brown, sometimes with violet grey ting, central yellow, woody, surrounded by a mealy white cortical layer.

How to use:
Decoctions are suitable for roots, barks, large seeds & berries, and other dense material. The simple way to make decoction is, in a saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs to I cup of water. Bring the water to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!

Tips:
You can sweeten your herbal decoctions with bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.

Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY
This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.