Evidence supporting the use of: Sarsaparilla (mixed)
For the body system: Lymphatics
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Sarsaparilla (Smilax spp.) has a longstanding history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Central and South America, as well as in Western herbalism. Historically, it has been used as a "blood purifier," which in herbalist terms frequently refers to supporting the lymphatic system and detoxification processes. Traditional practitioners have employed sarsaparilla for conditions believed to be associated with sluggish lymphatics, such as skin eruptions, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions. The rationale is that sarsaparilla may assist in the removal of metabolic waste products from the body, although this is a conceptual framework rather than one supported by robust scientific evidence.
Despite widespread traditional use, there is limited scientific research specifically investigating the effects of sarsaparilla on the lymphatic system. Most available studies focus on its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, or antimicrobial properties, and some of its phytochemicals (such as saponins and flavonoids) have been studied for these effects. However, these effects have not been directly linked to improvements in lymphatic function in human clinical trials. Thus, while the use of sarsaparilla for lymphatic support is rooted in tradition, scientific validation for this specific application remains weak.
Other ingredients that support Lymphatics
alfalfaastragalus
bayberry
blackberry
bupleurum falcatum
burdock
cat's claw
chamomile
citrus oil
citrus pectin
turmeric
dandelion
dyer’s woad root
echinacea purpurea
fruit blend (proprietary)
garlic bulb
ginger
goldenseal
gotu kola
onion
green tea
horse chestnut
lemon
licorice root
maitake mushroom
marshmallow
nettle
oregon grape
parsley
reishi mushroom
rosemary
scrophularia root
serratiopeptidase
specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs)
water
watercress
watermelon
sarsaparilla
red clover
jiaogulan
boneset
mullein
typhonium
lobelia
neem tree
punarnava
rubia cordifolia
lingzhi
yarrow
pau d'arco
elecampane
ganoderma
sheep's sorrel
polyporus
cleavers
stillingia
noni
herbal blend (proprietary)
AHCC
Ajuga
Aescin
Andrographis
Asteracea
Alkylglycerols
Blue Flag
Black-Eyed Susan
Brassica
Bindweed
berry
Bee products
Bupleurum
Bittersweet
Coumarin
Calendula
Coriolus mushroom
Codonopsis
Citrus
Cruciferous
Chinese Ligustrum berry
cypress
Chaparral
Cowslip
Ceanothus integerrimus
Cytokines
Castor Oil
Culvers Root
Deerbrush
Echinacea
Escin
Fruit
Figwort
Galium
Other body systems supported by Sarsaparilla (mixed)
Adrenal CortexAdrenal Glands
Arteries
Bladder
Blood
Digestive System
Glandular System
Immune System
Intestinal System
Joints
Kidneys
Large Intestines (Colon)
Liver
Lymphatics
Male Reproductive System
Skin
Urinary System