Certified Organic Sarsaparilla Extract
Also known as: Smilax aristolochiifolia, Smilax china, Smilax febrifuga, Smilax officinalis, Smilax ornata, Smilax regelii, Sarsaparilla, Ba Qia catbrier, Carrionflower, China root, Chob cheeni, Greenbrier, Jin Gang Teng, Khao yen, Rhizoma Smilacis Glabrae, Sarsa, Smilace, Tufuling, Zarzaparilla, Smilax glabra
Overview
Sarsaparilla is derived from the rhizomes of various *Smilax* species, widely known for its historical use in traditional medicine for ailments like syphilis, leprosy, and psoriasis. Characterized by its rich content of flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenylpropanoids, it is believed to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Despite its popularity in folk remedies, clinical evidence supporting these uses is limited, primarily relying on in vitro and animal studies, with few human clinical trials present. The potential therapeutic applications of Sarsaparilla are being explored, along with the extract's pharmacological properties, but the body of rigorous evidence substantiating its efficacy remains in early stages.
Benefits
Sarsaparilla exhibits several purported health benefits, notably its action against cancer cells. In vitro studies have demonstrated the extract's ability to inhibit the growth of colon, cervical, and leukemia cancer cells with minimal toxicity to normal cells. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties have been observed in animal models, suggesting potential utility in various inflammatory conditions. While evidence points towards anticancer effects primarily in vitro, actual benefits for cancer patients remain under-researched. The qualitative evidence from existing studies highlights the need for further clinical investigations to validate these claims.
How it works
Sarsaparilla's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways, primarily linked to apoptosis, autophagy, and cell cycle arrest, which may occur through activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway and imbalance in GSH/GSSG levels. These processes are believed to affect cellular metabolism and the immune response, contributing to its observed anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects, although the specific molecular targets are still not fully delineated.
Side effects
General safety assessments suggest Sarsaparilla is considered safe at traditional dosages; however, clinical evidence is limited. The most common side effects noted include gastrointestinal irritation and increased diuresis (occurring in more than 5% of users). Less frequent, but still reported, reactions involve occupational asthma due to exposure to root dust. Rare side effects are poorly documented. Potential drug interactions include those with diuretics and allopurinol, as it may interfere with methotrexate absorption. Given the lack of safety data, caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women, making it contraindicated in such populations. Special consideration is warranted for advised contraindications.
Dosage
Established dosing guidelines for Sarsaparilla are not well-defined due to the absence of clinical trials. No minimum effective dose has been established, and the optimal dosage ranges remain unquantified. Information on maximum safe doses hasn't been clarified either. Typically, Sarsaparilla is consumed in capsule or powder form as a dietary supplement, but specific timing considerations for administration have not been specified, along with factors influencing absorption that have not been sufficiently studied. Consequently, users should approach supplementation with care.
FAQs
Can I use Sarsaparilla for cancer treatment?
Sarsaparilla shows promise in vitro for anticancer effects, but further clinical research is needed before it can be recommended as a treatment.
Is Sarsaparilla safe during pregnancy?
Sarsaparilla is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data.
What are the common side effects of Sarsaparilla?
Common side effects include gastrointestinal irritation and increased urination; serious side effects are rare.
How should I take Sarsaparilla?
Sarsaparilla is typically available in capsule or powder form; specific timing or dose details are not well established.
Does Sarsaparilla have any known drug interactions?
Sarsaparilla may interact with diuretics and methotrexate, so consult a healthcare provider before use.
Research Sources
- https://aacrjournals.org/cancerpreventionresearch/article/8/5/464/50420/Sarsaparilla-Smilax-Glabra-Rhizome-Extract – This study explored the anticancer effects of *Smilax glabra* extract, showing marked inhibition of cancer cell growth and minimal toxicity to normal cell lines, with mechanisms involving apoptosis and cell cycle arrest.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35947382/ – This review assesses the increasing trend of herbal medicine usage, including Sarsaparilla, while highlighting the challenges posed by inadequate clinical evidence and standardization.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25732255/ – The study on dietary supplements emphasizes significant labeling inaccuracies in herbal supplements, including those containing Sarsaparilla, and the absence of verified third-party certification.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305367/ – This research investigates the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of several herbal extracts, including Sarsaparilla, contributing to the understanding of its potential health benefits.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/sarsaparilla.html – An overview of Sarsaparilla's historical uses and pharmacological effects, stressing the limited clinical evidence supporting its traditional applications.