Smilax glabra
·
Smilacaceae
·
China & Indochina

Sasparilla

Tu Fu Ling

Useful parts

Roots

Key actions

Immunostimulant, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antitumor

Active compounds

Glycosides, Saponins, Flavonoids

This Site is for Educational Use Only: The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I am not a licensed medical professional. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any medicinal plants, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

Possible Proposed Uses

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Kidney disease
  • STDs
  • Digestive problems

Mechanism of Action

Research pending

Possible Side Effects

  • Stomach irritation
  • Kidney irritation
  • Runny nose

Possible Drug Interactions

  • Digoxin
  • Lithium

Abigail's notes

Sarsaparilla has a long history of use for chronic illness, inflammation, and menopause symptoms, which puts it in useful company with several other plants in this database. It's anti-rheumatic, a detoxicant, diuretic, and tonic, which is a solid combination for anyone dealing with systemic inflammation or hormonal transition.

Skin is where sarsaparilla gets particularly interesting. It can help treat psoriasis, eczema, and other skin disorders, and specifically addresses skin problems that show up around menopause. If you've noticed your skin changing during that transition and haven't found something that helps, this one is worth researching further.

As a detoxicant and diuretic it supports the body's natural clearing processes, which connects to its traditional use for chronic illness management and why it has been reached for across so many different cultures over such a long period of time.

Safety note: High doses may cause side effects so stick to recommended amounts and don't assume more is better. This is also one to cross reference with your current medications before adding in, particularly anything diuretic or hormone related. As always, if you're managing a chronic condition, a quick conversation with your provider before starting is the smart move.

Last updated on:
May 20, 2026

Deeper research options for you (because I would never ask you to just take my word for it)

Sarsaparilla (Smilax Glabra Rhizome) Extract Inhibits Migration and Invasion of Cancer Cells by Suppressing TGF-β1 Pathway https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4351248/

Smilax glabra Roxb.: A Review of Its Traditional Usages, Phytochemical Constituents, Pharmacological Properties, and Clinical Applications https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9579009/

Sarsaparilla's therapeutic uses https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/complementary-and-alternative-medicine/sarsaparillas-therapeutic-uses

Herbal Remedies by Andrew Chevallier

Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. No provider-patient relationship is created by use of this site. The author makes no representations regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and assumes no liability for any adverse effects resulting from the use of plants or remedies described herein.

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