Sarsaparilla Root (Wildcrafted) - Smilax medica (Smilax ornata)

This plant is a member of the Greenbrier family and native to tropical and temperate parts of the world and comprises about 210 species worldwide.
It is native to South America, Jamaica, the Caribbean, Mexico, Honduras, and the West Indies.
The name sarsaparilla is not surprisingly a derivation of the Spanish words that describe the plant; zarza (bramble or bush), parra (vine), and illa (small)—a small, brambled vine.

For centuries, indigenous people around the world used the root of the sarsaparilla plant for treating joint problems like arthritis, and for healing skin problems like psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. The root was also thought to cure leprosy due to its “blood-purifying” properties.

It is reported to have anti-inflammatory, testosterogenic, aphrodisiac and progesterogenic effects.
Sarsaparilla was also commonly used to flavor Root Beer after the use of Sassafras was discontinued.

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