Sarsaparilla
is Great for Skin Conditions
Sarsaparilla is an herb
that has been taken by people in South America, Latin America and
the Caribbean since the 15th century. Introduced to the Europeans
in the 1600s, the roots of this long vine-like plant are dried then
chopped, shredded or made into powder. Sarsaparilla has been used
in Chinese medicine to help with ailments like cancer; in Indian
traditional medicine for skin conditions; and in other cultures
for leprosy and sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis.
Today, like in traditional Indian medicine, sarsaparilla is used
for skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema.
Sarsaparilla root is used topically in some parts of the world to
help with acne, fungal infections and the like. Some use it on inflamed
skin as a compress, and others believe it can help relieve itching.
Sarsaparilla is believed to have numerous benefits for the skin.
This herb has also long been used as a blood purifier and tonic
that helps increase the body’s stamina and energy levels,
plus it helps eliminate toxins. Sarsaparilla is thought be beneficial
because it contain vitamins A, C and D, as well as iron, sodium,
sulfur, zinc and methionine and cysteine, which are amino acids.
Interestingly enough, sarsaparilla is also known for its flavor
and taste. These two factors made it popular, and it was used extensively
as a flavoring agent. Although not used in today’s formulas,
sarsaparilla gave root beer its taste, and it has also been added
to medications to make them easier to swallow.
Some side effects that can result from taking sarsaparilla are stomach
irritation, as well as kidney diseases. There have also been findings
stating that some individuals who worked in factories packaging
and processing sarsaparilla developed asthma from breathing in the
dust.
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